Applications of universal frequency translation

ABSTRACT

Frequency translation and applications of same are described herein. Such applications include, but are not limited to, frequency down-conversion, frequency up-conversion, enhanced signal reception, unified down-conversion and filtering, and combinations and applications of same.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.12/881,912, filed Sep. 14, 2010, and entitled “APPLICATIONS OF UNIVERSALFREQUENCY TRANSLATION”, which is herein incorporated by reference in itsentirety, which is a Continuation of co-pending U.S. Continuationapplication Ser. No. 12/408,498, filed on Mar. 20, 2009, entitled“APPLICATIONS OF UNIVERSAL FREQUENCY TRANSLATION” by Sorrells, David F.et al., the entire contents of which are incorporated by reference andfor which priority is claimed under 35 U.S.C. 120. As in the parent U.S.Continuation application Ser. No. 12/408,498, priority is also claimedunder 35 U.S.C 120 to U.S. Continuation application Ser. No. 11/230,732,filed on Sep. 21, 2005, entitled “APPLICATIONS OF UNIVERSAL FREQUENCYTRANSLATION” by Sorrells, David F. et al., now U.S. Pat. No. 7,697,916,issued on Apr. 13, 2010 which is a Continuation of U.S. Continuationapplication Ser. No. 10/086,250, filed on Mar. 4, 2002, entitled“APPLICATIONS OF UNIVERSAL FREQUENCY TRANSLATION” by Sorrells, David F.et al, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,016,663, issued on Mar. 21, 2006 which is aContinuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 09/261,129, filed on Mar. 3,1999, entitled APPLICATIONS OF UNIVERSAL FREQUENCY TRANSLATION″ bySorrells, David F. et al, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,370,371, issued on Apr. 9,2002, which is a Continuation-In-Part of U.S. application Ser. No.09/176,027, filed Oct. 21, 1998 entitled “UNIVERSAL FREQUENCYTRANSLATION AND APPLICATIONS OF SAME,” by Sorrells, David F. et al, nowabandoned, the entire contents of each is incorporated herein byreference and for which benefit is claimed under 35 U.S.C. 120.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO OTHER APPLICATIONS

The following applications of common assignee are related to the presentapplication, and are herein incorporated by reference in theirentireties: “Method and System for Down-Converting ElectromagneticSignals,” Ser. No. 09/176,022, filed Oct. 21, 1998. “Method and Systemfor Frequency Up-Conversion,” Ser. No. 09/176,154, filed Oct. 21, 1998.“Method and System for Ensuring Reception of a Communications Signal,”Ser. No. 09/176,415, filed Oct. 21, 1998. “Integrated FrequencyTranslation And Selectivity,” Ser. No. 09/175,966, filed Oct. 21, 1998.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. The Field of the Invention

The present invention is generally related to frequency translation, andapplications of same.

2. Background and Relevant Art

Various communication components exist for performing frequencydown-conversion, frequency up-conversion, and filtering. Also, schemesexist for signal reception in the face of potential jamming signals.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is related to frequency translation, andapplications of same. Such applications include, but are not limited to,frequency down-conversion, frequency up-conversion, enhanced signalreception, unified down-conversion and filtering, and combinations andapplications of same.

Further features and advantages of the invention, as well as thestructure and operation of various embodiments of the invention, aredescribed in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.The drawing in which an element first appears is typically indicated bythe leftmost character(s) and/or digit(s) in the corresponding referencenumber.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present invention will be described with reference to theaccompanying drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1A is a block diagram of a universal frequency translation (UFT)module according to an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 1B is a more detailed diagram of a universal frequency translation(UFT) module according to an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 1C illustrates a UFT module used in a universal frequencydown-conversion (UFD) module according to an embodiment of theinvention;

FIG. 1D illustrates a UFT module used in a universal frequencyup-conversion (UFU) module according to an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a universal frequency translation (UFT)module according to an alternative embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 3 is a block diagram of a universal frequency up-conversion (UFU)module according to an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 4 is a more detailed diagram of a universal frequency up-conversion(UFU) module according to an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 5 is a block diagram of a universal frequency up-conversion (UFU)module according to an alternative embodiment of the invention;

FIGS. 6A-6I illustrate example waveforms used to describe the operationof the UFU module;

FIG. 7 illustrates a UFT module used in a receiver according to anembodiment of the invention;

FIG. 8 illustrates a UFT module used in a transmitter according to anembodiment of the invention;

FIG. 9 illustrates an environment comprising a transmitter and areceiver, each of which may be implemented using a UFT module of theinvention;

FIG. 10 illustrates a transceiver according to an embodiment of theinvention;

FIG. 11 illustrates a transceiver according to an alternative embodimentof the invention;

FIG. 12 illustrates an environment comprising a transmitter and areceiver, each of which may be implemented using enhanced signalreception (ESR) components of the invention;

FIG. 13 illustrates a UFT module used in a unified down-conversion andfiltering (UDF) module according to an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 14 illustrates an example receiver implemented using a UDF moduleaccording to an embodiment of the invention;

FIGS. 15A-15F illustrate example applications of the UDF moduleaccording to embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 16 illustrates an environment comprising a transmitter and areceiver, each of which may be implemented using enhanced signalreception (ESR) components of the invention, wherein the receiver may befurther implemented using one or more UFD modules of the invention;

FIG. 17 illustrates a unified down-converting and filtering (UDF) moduleaccording to an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 18 is a table of example values at nodes in the UDF module of FIG.17;

FIG. 19 is a detailed diagram of an example UDF module according to anembodiment of the invention;

FIGS. 20A and 20A-1 are example aliasing modules according toembodiments of the invention;

FIGS. 20B-20F are example waveforms used to describe the operation ofthe aliasing modules of FIGS. 20A and 20A-1;

FIG. 21 illustrates an enhanced signal reception system according to anembodiment of the invention;

FIGS. 22A-22F are example waveforms is used to describe the system ofFIG. 21;

FIG. 23A illustrates an example transmitter in an enhanced signalreception system according to an embodiment of the invention;

FIGS. 23B and 23C are example waveforms used to further describe theenhanced signal reception system according to an embodiment of theinvention;

FIG. 23D illustrates another example transmitter in an enhanced signalreception system according to an embodiment of the invention;

FIGS. 23E and 23F are example waveforms used to further describe theenhanced signal reception system according to an embodiment of theinvention;

FIG. 24A illustrates an example receiver in an enhanced signal receptionsystem according to an embodiment of the invention;

FIGS. 24B-24J are example waveforms used to further describe theenhanced signal reception system according to an embodiment of theinvention;

FIG. 25 illustrates an environment comprising telephones and basestations according to an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 26 illustrates a positioning unit according to an embodiment of theinvention;

FIGS. 27 and 28 illustrate communication networks according toembodiments of the invention;

FIGS. 29 and 30 illustrate pagers according to embodiments of theinvention;

FIG. 31 illustrates a security system according to an embodiment of theinvention;

FIG. 32 illustrates a repeater according to an embodiment of theinvention;

FIG. 33 illustrates mobile radios according to an embodiment of theinvention;

FIG. 34 illustrates an environment involving satellite communicationsaccording to an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 35 illustrates a computer and its peripherals according to anembodiment of the invention;

FIGS. 36-38 illustrate home control devices according to embodiments ofthe invention;

FIG. 39 illustrates an example automobile according to an embodiment ofthe invention;

FIG. 40A illustrates an example aircraft according to an embodiment ofthe invention;

FIG. 40B illustrates an example boat according to an embodiment of theinvention;

FIG. 41 illustrates radio controlled devices according to an embodimentof the invention;

FIGS. 42A-42D illustrate example frequency bands operable withembodiments of the invention, where FIG. 42D illustrates the orientationof FIGS. 42A-42C (some overlap is shown in FIGS. 42A-42C forillustrative purposes);

FIG. 43 illustrates an example radio synchronous watch according to anembodiment of the invention; and

FIG. 44 illustrates an example radio according to an embodiment of theinvention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Table of Contents Universal Frequency Translation FrequencyDown-conversion Frequency Up-conversion Enhanced Signal ReceptionUnified Down-conversion and Filtering Example Application Embodiments ofthe Invention Telephones Base Stations Positioning Data CommunicationPagers Security Repeaters Mobile Radios Satellite Up/Down Links Commandand Control PC Peripherals Building/Home Functions Automotive ControlsAircraft Controls Maritime Controls Radio Control Radio SynchronousWatch Other Example Applications Applications Involving Enhanced SignalReception Applications Involving Unified Down-conversion and FilteringConclusionUniversal Frequency Translation

The present invention is related to frequency translation, andapplications of same. Such applications include, but are not limited to,frequency down-conversion, frequency up-conversion, enhanced signalreception, unified down-conversion and filtering, and combinations andapplications of same.

FIG. 1A illustrates a universal frequency translation (UFT) module 102according to embodiments of the invention. (The UFT module is alsosometimes called a universal frequency translator, or a universaltranslator.)

As indicated by the example of FIG. 1A, some embodiments of the UFTmodule 102 include three ports (nodes), designated in FIG. 1A as Port 1,Port 2, and Port 3. Other UFT embodiments include other than threeports.

Generally, the UFT module 102 (perhaps in combination with othercomponents) operates to generate an output signal from an input signal,where the frequency of the output signal differs from the frequency ofthe input signal. In other words, the UFT module 102 (and perhaps othercomponents) operates to generate the output signal from the input signalby translating the frequency (and perhaps other characteristics) of theinput signal to the frequency (and perhaps other characteristics) of theoutput signal.

An example embodiment of the UFT module 103 is generally illustrated inFIG. 1B. Generally, the UFT module 103 includes a switch 106 controlledby a control signal 108. The switch 106 is said to be a controlledswitch.

As noted above, some UFT embodiments include other than three ports. Forexample, and without limitation, FIG. 2 illustrates an example UFTmodule 202. The example UFT module 202 includes a diode 204 having twoports, designated as Port 1 and Port 2/3. This embodiment does notinclude a third port, as indicated by the dotted line around the “Port3” label.

The UFT module is a very powerful and flexible device. Its flexibilityis illustrated, in part, by the wide range of applications in which itcan be used. Its power is illustrated, in part, by the usefulness andperformance of such applications.

For example, a UFT module 115 can be used in a universal frequencydown-conversion (UFD) module 114, an example of which is shown in FIG.1C. In this capacity, the UFT module 115 frequency down-converts aninput signal to an output signal.

As another example, as shown in FIG. 1D, a UFT module 117 can be used ina universal frequency up-conversion (UFU) module 116. In this capacity,the UFT module 117 frequency up-converts an input signal to an outputsignal.

These and other applications of the UFT module are described below.Additional applications of the UFT module will be apparent to personsskilled in the relevant art(s) based on the teachings contained herein.In some applications, the UFT module is a required component. In otherapplications, the UFT module is an optional component.

Frequency Down-Conversion

The present invention is directed to systems and methods of universalfrequency down-conversion, and applications of same.

In particular, the following discussion describes down-converting usinga Universal Frequency Translation Module. The down-conversion of an EMsignal by aliasing the EM signal at an aliasing rate is fully describedin co-pending U.S. patent application entitled “Method and System forDown-Converting Electromagnetic Signals,” Ser. No. 09/176,022, filedOct. 21, 1998, the full disclosure of which is incorporated herein byreference. A relevant portion of the above mentioned patent applicationis summarized below to describe down-converting an input signal toproduce a down-converted signal that exists at a lower frequency or abaseband signal.

FIG. 20A illustrates an aliasing module 2000 for down-conversion using auniversal frequency translation (UFT) module 2002 which down-converts anEM input signal 2004. In particular embodiments, aliasing module 2000includes a switch 2008 and a capacitor 2010. The electronic alignment ofthe circuit components is flexible. That is, in one implementation, theswitch 2008 is in series with input signal 2004 and capacitor 2010 isshunted to ground (although it may be other than ground inconfigurations such as differential mode). In a second implementation(see FIG. 20A-1), the capacitor 2010 is in series with the input signal2004 and the switch 2008 is shunted to ground (although it may be otherthan ground in configurations such as differential mode). Aliasingmodule 2000 with UFT module 2002 can be easily tailored to down-converta wide variety of electromagnetic signals using aliasing frequenciesthat are well below the frequencies of the EM input signal 2004.

In one implementation, aliasing module 2000 down-converts the inputsignal 2004 to an intermediate frequency (IF) signal. In anotherimplementation, the aliasing module 2000 down-converts the input signal2004 to a demodulated baseband signal. In yet another implementation,the input signal 2004 is a frequency modulated (FM) signal, and thealiasing module 2000 down-converts it to a non-FM signal, such as aphase modulated (PM) signal or an amplitude modulated (AM) signal. Eachof the above implementations is described below.

In an embodiment, the control signal 2006 includes a train of pulsesthat repeat at an aliasing rate that is equal to, or less than, twicethe frequency of the input signal 2004. In this embodiment, the controlsignal 2006 is referred to herein as an aliasing signal because it isbelow the Nyquist rate for the frequency of the input signal 2004.Preferably, the frequency of control signal 2006 is much less than theinput signal 2004.

A train of pulses 2018 as shown in FIG. 20D controls the switch 2008 toalias the input signal 2004 with the control signal 2006 to generate adown-converted output signal 2012. More specifically, in an embodiment,switch 2008 closes on a first edge of each pulse 2020 of FIG. 20D andopens on a second edge of each pulse. When the switch 2008 is closed,the input signal 2004 is coupled to the capacitor 2010, and charge istransferred from the input signal to the capacitor 2010. The chargestored during successive pulses forms down-converted output signal 2012.

Exemplary waveforms is are shown in FIGS. 20B-20F.

FIG. 20B illustrates an analog amplitude modulated (AM) carrier signal2014 that is an example of input signal 2004. For illustrative purposes,in FIG. 20C, an analog AM carrier signal portion 2016 illustrates aportion of the analog AM carrier signal 2014 on an expanded time scale.The analog AM carrier signal portion 2016 illustrates the analog AMcarrier signal 2014 from time t₀ to time t₁.

FIG. 20D illustrates an exemplary aliasing signal 2018 that is anexample of control signal 2006. Aliasing signal 2018 is on approximatelythe same time scale as the analog AM carrier signal portion 2016. In theexample shown in FIG. 20D, the aliasing signal 2018 includes a train ofpulses 2020 having negligible apertures that tend towards zero (theinvention is not limited to this embodiment, as discussed below). Thepulse aperture may also be referred to as the pulse width as will beunderstood by those skilled in the art(s). The pulses 2020 repeat at analiasing rate, or pulse repetition rate of aliasing signal 2018. Thealiasing rate is determined as described below, and further described inco-pending U.S. patent application entitled “Method and System forDown-converting Electromagnetic Signals,” application Ser. No.09/176,022.

As noted above, the train of pulses 2020 (i.e., control signal 2006)control the switch 2008 to alias the analog AM carrier signal 2016(i.e., input signal 2004) at the aliasing rate of the aliasing signal2018. Specifically, in this embodiment, the switch 2008 closes on afirst edge of each pulse and opens on a second edge of each pulse. Whenthe switch 2008 is closed, input signal 2004 is coupled to the capacitor2010, and charge is transferred from the input signal 2004 to thecapacitor 2010. The charge transferred during a pulse is referred toherein as an under-sample. Exemplary under-samples 2022 formdown-converted signal portion 2024 (FIG. 20E) that corresponds to theanalog AM carrier signal portion 2016 (FIG. 20C) and the train of pulses2020 (FIG. 20D). The charge stored during successive under-samples of AMcarrier signal 2014 form the down-converted signal 2024 (FIG. 20E) thatis an example of down-converted output signal 2012 (FIG. 20A). In FIG.20F, a demodulated baseband signal 2026 represents the demodulatedbaseband signal 2024 after filtering on a compressed time scale. Asillustrated, down-converted signal 2026 has substantially the same“amplitude envelope” as AM carrier signal 2014. Therefore, FIGS. 20B-20Fillustrate down-conversion of AM carrier signal 2014.

The waveforms shown in FIGS. 20B-20F are discussed herein forillustrative purposes only, and are not limiting. Additional exemplarytime domain and frequency domain drawings, and exemplary methods andsystems of the invention relating thereto, are disclosed in co-pendingU.S. patent application entitled “Method and System for Down-convertingElectromagnetic Signals,” application Ser. No. 09/176,022.

The aliasing rate of control signal 2006 determines whether the inputsignal 2004 is down-converted to an IF signal, down-converted to ademodulated baseband signal, or down-converted from an FM signal to a PMor an AM signal. Generally, relationships between the input signal 2004,the aliasing rate of the control signal 2006, and the down-convertedoutput signal 2012 are illustrated below:(Freq. of input signal 2004)=n((Freq. of control signal 2006)±(Freq. ofdown-converted output signal 2012)

For the examples contained herein, only the “+” condition will bediscussed. The value of n represents a harmonic or sub-harmonic of inputsignal 2004 (e.g., n=0.5, 1, 2, 3, . . . ).

When the aliasing rate of control signal 2006 is off-set from thefrequency of input signal 2004, or off-set from a harmonic orsub-harmonic thereof, input signal 2004 is down-converted to an IFsignal. This is because the under-sampling pulses occur at differentphases of subsequent cycles of input signal 2004. As a result, theunder-samples form a lower frequency oscillating pattern. If the inputsignal 2004 includes lower frequency changes, such as amplitude,frequency, phase, etc., or any combination thereof, the charge storedduring associated under-samples reflects the lower frequency changes,resulting in similar changes on the down-converted IF signal. Forexample, to down-convert a 901 MHZ input signal to a 1 MHZ IF signal,the frequency of the control signal 2006 would be calculated as follows:(Freq_(input)−Freq_(IF) /n=Freq_(control)(901 MHZ−1 MHZ)/n=900/nFor n=0.5, 1, 2, 3, 4, etc., the frequency of the control signal 2006would be substantially equal to 1.8 GHz, 900 MHZ, 450 MHZ, 300 MHZ, 225MHZ, etc.

Exemplary time domain and frequency domain drawings, illustratingdown-conversion of analog and digital AM, PM and FM signals to IFsignals, and exemplary methods and systems thereof, are disclosed inco-pending U.S. patent application entitled “Method and System forDown-converting Electromagnetic Signals,” application Ser. No.09/176,022.

Alternatively, when the aliasing rate of the control signal 2006 issubstantially equal to the frequency of the input signal 2004, orsubstantially equal to a harmonic or sub-harmonic thereof, input signal2004 is directly down-converted to a demodulated baseband signal. Thisis because, without modulation, the under-sampling pulses occur at thesame point of subsequent cycles of the input signal 2004. As a result,the under-samples form a constant output baseband signal. If the inputsignal 2004 includes lower frequency changes, such as amplitude,frequency, phase, etc., or any combination thereof, the charge storedduring associated under-samples reflects the lower frequency changes,resulting in similar changes on the demodulated baseband signal. Forexample, to directly down-convert a 900 MHZ input signal to ademodulated baseband signal (i.e., zero IF), the frequency of thecontrol signal 2006 would be calculated as follows:(Freq_(input)−Freq_(IF) /n=Freq_(control)(900 MHZ−1 MHZ)/n=900 MHZ/nFor n=0.5, 1, 2, 3, 4, etc., the frequency of the control signal 2006should be substantially equal to 1.8 GHz, 900 MHZ, 450 MHZ, 300 MHZ, 225MHZ, etc.

Exemplary time domain and frequency domain drawings, illustrating directdown-conversion of analog and digital AM and PM signals to demodulatedbaseband signals, and exemplary methods and systems thereof, aredisclosed in the co-pending U.S. patent application entitled “Method andSystem for Down-converting Electromagnetic Signals,” application Ser.No. 09/176,022.

Alternatively, to down-convert an input FM signal to a non-FM signal, afrequency within the FM bandwidth must be down-converted to baseband(i.e., zero IF). As an example, to down-convert a frequency shift keying(FSK) signal (a sub-set of FM) to a phase shift keying (PSK) signal (asubset of PM), the mid-point between a lower frequency F₁ and an upperfrequency F_(Z) (that is, [[((F)]

1+F

2)÷2]) of the FSK signal is down-converted to zero IF. For example, todown-convert an FSK signal having F₁ equal to 899 MHZ and F_(Z) equal to901 MHZ, to a PSK signal, the aliasing rate of the control signal 2006would be calculated as follows:

$\begin{matrix}{ {{  {{{Frequency}\mspace{14mu}{of}\mspace{14mu}{the}\mspace{14mu}{input}} = {F}} ) \rbrack_{\downarrow}1} + {F_{\downarrow}2}} ) \div 2} \\{= {( {{899\mspace{14mu}{MHZ}} + {901\mspace{14mu}{MHZ}}} ) \div 2}} \\{= {900\mspace{14mu}{MHZ}}}\end{matrix}$Frequency of the down-converted signal=0 (i.e., baseband)(Freq_(input)−Freq_(IF) /n=Freq_(control)(900 MHZ−0 MHZ)/n=900 MHZ/nFor n=0.5, 1, 2, 3, etc., the frequency of the control signal 2006should be substantially equal to 1.8 GHz, 900 MHZ, 450 MHZ, 300 MHZ, 225MHZ, etc. The frequency of the down-converted PSK signal issubstantially equal to one half the difference between the lowerfrequency F₁ and the upper frequency F_(Z).

As another example, to down-convert a FSK signal to an amplitude shiftkeying (ASK) signal (a subset of AM), either the lower frequency F₁ orthe upper frequency F_(Z) of the FSK signal is down-converted to zeroIF. For example, to down-convert an FSK signal having F₁ equal to 900MHZ and F_(Z) equal to 901 MHZ, to an ASK signal, the aliasing rate ofthe control signal 2006 should be substantially equal to:(900 MHZ−0 MHZ)/n=900 MHZ/n, or(901 MHZ−0 MHZ)/n=900 MHZ/nFor the former case of 900 MHZ/n, and for n=0.5, 1, 2, 3, 4, etc., thefrequency of the control signal 2006 should be substantially equal to1.8 GHz, 900 MHZ, 450 MHZ, 300 MHZ, 225 MHZ, etc. For the latter case of900 MHZ/n, and for n=0.5, 1, 2, 3, 4, etc., the frequency of the controlsignal 2006 should be substantially equal to 1.802 GHz, 901 MHZ, 450.5MHZ, 300.333 MHZ, 225.25 MHZ, etc. The frequency of the down-convertedAM signal is substantially equal to the difference between the lowerfrequency F₁ and the upper frequency F_(Z) (i.e., 1 MHZ).

Exemplary time domain and frequency domain drawings, illustratingdown-conversion of FM signals to non-FM signals, and exemplary methodsand systems thereof, are disclosed in the co-pending U.S. patentapplication entitled “Method and System for Down-convertingElectromagnetic Signals,” application Ser. No. 09/176,022.

In an embodiment, the pulses of the control signal 2006 have negligibleapertures that tend towards zero. This makes the UFT module 2002 a highinput impedance device. This configuration is useful for situationswhere minimal disturbance of the input signal may be desired.

In another embodiment, the pulses of the control signal 2006 havenon-negligible apertures that tend away from zero. This makes the UFTmodule 2002 a lower input impedance device. This allows the lower inputimpedance of the UFT module 2002 to be substantially matched with asource impedance of the input signal 2004. This also improves the energytransfer from the input signal 2004 to the down-converted output signal2012, and hence the efficiency and signal to noise (s/n) ratio of UFTmodule 2002.

Exemplary systems and methods for generating and optimizing the controlsignal 2006, and for otherwise improving energy transfer and s/n ratio,are disclosed in the co-pending U.S. patent application entitled “Methodand System for Down-converting Electromagnetic Signals,” applicationSer. No. 09/176,022.

Frequency Up-Conversion

The present invention is directed to systems and methods of frequencyup-conversion, and applications of same.

An example frequency up-conversion system 300 is illustrated in FIG. 3.The frequency up-conversion system 300 is now described.

An input signal 302 (designated as “Control Signal” in FIG. 3) isaccepted by a switch module 304. For purposes of example only, assumethat the input signal 302 is a FM input signal 606, an example of whichis shown in FIG. 6C. FM input signal 606 may have been generated bymodulating information signal 602 onto oscillating signal 604 (FIGS. 6Aand 6B). It should be understood that the invention is not limited tothis embodiment. The information signal 602 can be analog, digital, orany combination thereof, and any modulation scheme can be used.

The output of switch module 304 is a harmonically rich signal 306, shownfor example in FIG. 6D as a harmonically rich signal 608. Theharmonically rich signal 608 has a continuous and periodic waveform.

FIG. 6E is an expanded view of two sections of harmonically rich signal608, section 610 and section 612. The harmonically rich signal 608 maybe a rectangular wave, such as a square wave or a pulse (although, theinvention is not limited to this embodiment). For ease of discussion,the term “rectangular waveform” is used to refer to waveforms that aresubstantially rectangular. In a similar manner, the term “square wave”refers to those waveforms that are substantially square and it is notthe intent of the present invention that a perfect square wave begenerated or needed.

Harmonically rich signal 608 is comprised of a plurality of sinusoidalwaves whose frequencies are integer multiples of the fundamentalfrequency of the waveform of the harmonically rich signal 608. Thesesinusoidal waves are referred to as the harmonics of the underlyingwaveform, and the fundamental frequency is referred to as the firstharmonic. FIG. 6F and FIG. 6G show separately the sinusoidal componentsmaking up the first, third, and fifth harmonics of section 610 andsection 612. (Note that in theory there may be an infinite number ofharmonics; in this example, because harmonically rich signal 608 isshown as a square wave, there are only odd harmonics). Three harmonicsare shown simultaneously (but not summed) in FIG. 6H.

The relative amplitudes of the harmonics are generally a function of therelative widths of the pulses of harmonically rich signal 306 and theperiod of the fundamental frequency, and can be determined by doing aFourier analysis of harmonically rich signal 306. According to anembodiment of the invention, the input signal 606 may be shaped toensure that the amplitude of the desired harmonic is sufficient for itsintended use (e.g., transmission).

A filter 308 filters out any undesired frequencies (harmonics), andoutputs an electromagnetic (EM) signal at the desired harmonic frequencyor frequencies as an output signal 310, shown for example as a filteredoutput signal 614 in FIG. 6I.

FIG. 4 illustrates an example universal frequency up-conversion (UFU)module 401. The UFU module 401 includes an example switch module 304,which comprises a bias signal 402, a resistor or impedance 404, auniversal frequency translator (UFT) 450, and a ground 408. The UFT 450includes a switch 406. The input signal 302 (designated as “ControlSignal” in FIG. 4) controls the switch 406 in the UFT 450, and causes itto close and open. Harmonically rich signal 306 is generated at a node405 located between the resistor or impedance 404 and the switch 406.

Also in FIG. 4, it can be seen that an example filter 308 is comprisedof a capacitor 410 and an inductor 412 shunted to a ground 414. Thefilter is designed to filter out the undesired harmonics of harmonicallyrich signal 306.

The invention is not limited to the UFU embodiment shown in FIG. 4.

For example, in an alternate embodiment shown in FIG. 5, an unshapedinput signal 501 is routed to a pulse shaping module 502. The pulseshaping module 502 modifies the unshaped input signal 501 to generate a(modified) input signal 302 (designated as the “Control Signal” in FIG.5). The input signal 302 is routed to the switch module 304, whichoperates in the manner described above. Also, the filter 308 of FIG. 5operates in the manner described above.

The purpose of the pulse shaping module 502 is to define the pulse widthof the input signal 302. Recall that the input signal 302 controls theopening and closing of the switch 406 in switch module 304. During suchoperation, the pulse width of the input signal 302 establishes the pulsewidth of the harmonically rich signal 306. As stated above, the relativeamplitudes of the harmonics of the harmonically rich signal 306 are afunction of at least the pulse width of the harmonically rich signal306. As such, the pulse width of the input signal 302 contributes tosetting the relative amplitudes of the harmonics of harmonically richsignal 306.

Further details of up-conversion as described in this section arepresented in pending U.S. application “Method and System for FrequencyUp-Conversion,” Ser. No. 09/176,154, filed Oct. 21, 1998, incorporatedherein by reference in its entirety.

Enhanced Signal Reception

The present invention is directed to systems and methods of enhancedsignal reception (ESR), and applications of same.

Referring to FIG. 21, transmitter 2104 accepts a modulating basebandsignal 2102 and generates (transmitted) redundant spectrums 2106 a-n,which are sent over communications medium 2108. Receiver 2112 recovers ademodulated baseband signal 2114 from (received) redundant spectrums2110 a-n. Demodulated baseband signal 2114 is representative of themodulating baseband signal 2102, where the level of similarity betweenthe modulating baseband signal 2114 and the modulating baseband signal2102 is application dependent.

Modulating baseband signal 2102 is preferably any information signaldesired for transmission and/or reception. An example modulatingbaseband signal 2202 is illustrated in FIG. 22A, and has an associatedmodulating baseband spectrum 2204 and image spectrum 2203 that areillustrated in FIG. 22B. Modulating baseband signal 2202 is illustratedas an analog signal in FIG. 22 a, but could also be a digital signal, orcombination thereof. Modulating baseband signal 2202 could be a voltage(or current) characterization of any number of real world occurrences,including for example and without limitation, the voltage (or current)representation for a voice signal.

Each transmitted redundant spectrum 2106 a-n contains the necessaryinformation to substantially reconstruct the modulating baseband signal2102. In other words, each redundant spectrum 2106 a-n contains thenecessary amplitude, phase, and frequency information to reconstruct themodulating baseband signal 2102.

FIG. 22C illustrates example transmitted redundant spectrums 2206 b-d.Transmitted redundant spectrums 2206 b-d are illustrated to containthree redundant spectrums for illustration purposes only. Any number ofredundant spectrums could be generated and transmitted as will beexplained in following discussions.

Transmitted redundant spectrums 2206 b-d are centered at f₁, with afrequency spacing f_(Z) between adjacent spectrums. Frequencies f₁ andf_(Z) are dynamically adjustable in real-time as will be shown below.FIG. 22D illustrates an alternate embodiment, where redundant spectrums2208 c,d are centered on unmodulated oscillating signal 2209 at f₁ (Hz).Oscillating signal 2209 may be suppressed if desired using, for example,phasing techniques or filtering techniques. Transmitted redundantspectrums are preferably above baseband frequencies as is represented bybreak 2205 in the frequency axis of FIGS. 22C and 22D.

Received redundant spectrums 2110 a-n are substantially similar totransmitted redundant spectrums 2106 a-n, except for the changesintroduced by the communications medium 2108. Such changes can includebut are not limited to signal attenuation, and signal interference. FIG.22E illustrates example received redundant spectrums 2210 b-d. Receivedredundant spectrums 2210 b-d are substantially similar to transmittedredundant spectrums 2206 b-d, except that redundant spectrum 2210 cincludes an undesired jamming signal spectrum 2211 in order toillustrate some advantages of the present invention. Jamming signalspectrum 2211 is a frequency spectrum associated with a jamming signal.For purposes of this invention, a “jamming signal” refers to anyunwanted signal, regardless of origin, that may interfere with theproper reception and reconstruction of an intended signal. Furthermore,the jamming signal is not limited to tones as depicted by spectrum 2211,and can have any spectral shape, as will be understood by those skilledin the art(s).

As stated above, demodulated baseband signal 2114 is extracted from oneor more of received redundant spectrums 2210 b-d. FIG. 22F illustratesexample demodulated baseband signal 2212 that is, in this example,substantially similar to modulating baseband signal 2202 (FIG. 22A);where in practice, the degree of similarity is application dependent.

An advantage of the present invention should now be apparent. Therecovery of modulating baseband signal 2202 can be accomplished byreceiver 2112 in spite of the fact that high strength jamming signal(s)(e.g. jamming signal spectrum 2211) exist on the communications medium.The intended baseband signal can be recovered because multiple redundantspectrums are transmitted, where each redundant spectrum carries thenecessary information to reconstruct the baseband signal. At thedestination, the redundant spectrums are isolated from each other sothat the baseband signal can be recovered even if one or more of theredundant spectrums are corrupted by a jamming signal.

Transmitter 2104 will now be explored in greater detail. FIG. 23Aillustrates transmitter 2301, which is one embodiment of transmitter2104 that generates redundant spectrums configured similar to redundantspectrums 2206 b-d. Transmitter 2301 includes generator 2303, optionalspectrum processing module 2304, and optional medium interface module2320. Generator 2303 includes: first oscillator 2302, second oscillator2309, first stage modulator 2306, and second stage modulator 2310.

Transmitter 2301 operates as follows. First oscillator 2302 and secondoscillator 2309 generate a first oscillating signal 2305 and secondoscillating signal 2312, respectively. First stage modulator 2306modulates first oscillating signal 2305 with modulating baseband signal2202, resulting in modulated signal 2308. First stage modulator 2306 mayimplement any type of modulation including but not limited to: amplitudemodulation, frequency modulation, phase modulation, combinationsthereof, or any other type of modulation. Second stage modulator 2310modulates modulated signal 2308 with second oscillating signal 2312,resulting in multiple redundant spectrums 2206 a-n shown in FIG. 23B.Second stage modulator 2310 is preferably a phase modulator, or afrequency modulator, although other types of modulation may beimplemented including but not limited to amplitude modulation. Eachredundant spectrum 2206 a-n contains the necessary amplitude, phase, andfrequency information to substantially reconstruct the modulatingbaseband signal 2202.

Redundant spectrums 2206 a-n are substantially centered around f₁, whichis the characteristic frequency of first oscillating signal 2305. Also,each redundant spectrum 2206 a-n (except for 2206 c) is offset from f₁by approximately a multiple of f_(Z) (Hz), where f_(Z) is the frequencyof the second oscillating signal 2312. Thus, each redundant spectrum2206 a-n is offset from an adjacent redundant spectrum by f_(Z) (Hz).This allows the spacing between adjacent redundant spectrums to beadjusted (or tuned) by changing f₁ that is associated with secondoscillator 2309. Adjusting the spacing between adjacent redundantspectrums allows for dynamic real-time tuning of the bandwidth occupiedby redundant spectrums 2206 a-n.

In one embodiment, the number of redundant spectrums 2206 a-n generatedby transmitter 2301 is arbitrary and may be unlimited as indicated bythe “a-n” designation for redundant spectrums 2206 a-n. However, atypical communications medium will have a physical and/or administrativelimitations (i.e. FCC regulations) that restrict the number of redundantspectrums that can be practically transmitted over the communicationsmedium. Also, there may be other reasons to limit the number ofredundant spectrums transmitted. Therefore, preferably, the transmitter2301 will include an optional spectrum processing module 2304 to processthe redundant spectrums 2206 a-n prior to transmission overcommunications medium 2108.

In one embodiment, spectrum processing module 2304 includes a filterwith a passband 2207 (FIG. 23C) to select redundant spectrums 2206 b-dfor transmission. This will substantially limit the frequency bandwidthoccupied by the redundant spectrums to the passband 2207. In oneembodiment, spectrum processing module 2304 also up converts redundantspectrums and/or amplifies redundant spectrums prior to transmissionover the communications medium 2108. Finally, medium interface module2320 transmits redundant spectrums over the communications medium 2108.In one embodiment, communications medium 2108 is an over-the-air linkand medium interface module 2320 is an antenna. Other embodiments forcommunications medium 2108 and medium interface module 2320 will beunderstood based on the teachings contained herein.

FIG. 23D illustrates transmitter 2321, which is one embodiment oftransmitter 2104 that generates redundant spectrums configured similarto redundant spectrums 2208 c-d and unmodulated spectrum 2209.Transmitter 2321 includes generator 2311, spectrum processing module2304, and (optional) medium interface module 2320. Generator 2311includes: first oscillator 2302, second oscillator 2309, first stagemodulator 2306, and second stage modulator 2310.

As shown in FIG. 23D, many of the components in transmitter 2321 aresimilar to those in transmitter 2301. However, in this embodiment,modulating baseband signal 2202 modulates second oscillating signal2312. Transmitter 2321 operates as follows. First stage modulator 2306modulates second oscillating signal 2312 with modulating baseband signal2202, resulting in modulated signal 2322. As described earlier, firststage modulator 2306 can affect any type of modulation including but notlimited to: amplitude modulation frequency modulation, combinationsthereof, or any other type of modulation. Second stage modulator 2310modulates first oscillating signal 2304 with modulated signal 2322,resulting in redundant spectrums 2208 a-n, as shown in FIG. 23E. Secondstage modulator 2310 is preferably a phase or frequency modulator,although other modulators could used including but not limited to anamplitude modulator.

Redundant spectrums 2208 a-n are centered on unmodulated spectrum 2209(at f₁ Hz), and adjacent spectrums are separated by f_(Z) Hz. The numberof redundant spectrums 2208 a-n generated by generator 2311 is arbitraryand unlimited, similar to spectrums 2206 a-n discussed above. Therefore,optional spectrum processing module 2304 may also include a filter withpassband 2325 to select, for example, spectrums 2208 c,d fortransmission over communications medium 2108. In addition, optionalspectrum processing module 2304 may also include a filter (such as abandstop filter) to attenuate unmodulated spectrum 2209. Alternatively,unmodulated spectrum 2209 may be attenuated by using phasing techniquesduring redundant spectrum generation. Finally, (optional) mediuminterface module 2320 transmits redundant spectrums 2208 c,d overcommunications medium 2108.

Receiver 2112 will now be explored in greater detail to illustraterecovery of a demodulated baseband signal from received redundantspectrums. FIG. 24A illustrates receiver 2430, which is one embodimentof receiver 2112. Receiver 2430 includes optional medium interfacemodule 2402, down-converter 2404, spectrum isolation module 2408, anddata extraction module 2414. Spectrum isolation module 2408 includesfilters 2410 a-c. Data extraction module 2414 includes demodulators 2416a-c, error check modules 2420 a-c, and arbitration module 2424. Receiver2430 will be discussed in relation to the signal diagrams in FIGS.24B-24J.

In one embodiment, optional medium interface module 2402 receivesredundant spectrums 2210 b-d (FIG. 22E, and FIG. 24B). Each redundantspectrum 2210 b-d includes the necessary amplitude, phase, and frequencyinformation to substantially reconstruct the modulating baseband signalused to generated the redundant spectrums. However, in the presentexample, spectrum 2210 c also contains jamming signal 2211, which mayinterfere with the recovery of a baseband signal from spectrum 2210 c.Down-converter 2404 down-converts received redundant spectrums 2210 b-dto lower intermediate frequencies, resulting in redundant spectrums 2406a-c (FIG. 24C). Jamming signal 2211 is also down-converted to jammingsignal 2407, as it is contained within redundant spectrum 2406 b.Spectrum isolation module 2408 includes filters 2410 a-c that isolateredundant spectrums 2406 a-c from each other (FIGS. 24D-24F,respectively). Demodulators 2416 a-c independently demodulate spectrums2406 a-c, resulting in demodulated baseband signals 2418 a-c,respectively (FIGS. 24G-24I). Error check modules 2420 a-c analyzedemodulate baseband signal 2418 a-c to detect any errors. In oneembodiment, each error check module 2420 a-c sets an error flag 2422 a-cwhenever an error is detected in a demodulated baseband signal.Arbitration module 2424 accepts the demodulated baseband signals andassociated error flags, and selects a substantially error-freedemodulated baseband signal (FIG. 24J). In one embodiment, thesubstantially error-free demodulated baseband signal will besubstantially similar to the modulating baseband signal used to generatethe received redundant spectrums, where the degree of similarity isapplication dependent.

Referring to FIGS. 24G-I, arbitration module 2424 will select eitherdemodulated baseband signal 2418 a or 2418 c, because error check module2420 b will set the error flag 2422 b that is associated withdemodulated baseband signal 2418 b.

The error detection schemes implemented by the error detection modulesinclude but are not limited to: cyclic redundancy check (CRC) and paritycheck for digital signals, and various error detections schemes foranalog signal.

Further details of enhanced signal reception as described in thissection are presented in pending U.S. application “Method and System forEnsuring Reception of a Communications Signal,” Ser. No. 09/176,415,filed Oct. 21, 1998, incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

Unified Down-Conversion and Filtering

The present invention is directed to systems and methods of unifieddown-conversion and filtering (UDF), and applications of same.

In particular, the present invention includes a unified down-convertingand filtering (UDF) module that performs frequency selectivity andfrequency translation in a unified (i.e., integrated) manner. Byoperating in this manner, the invention achieves high frequencyselectivity prior to frequency translation (the invention is not limitedto this embodiment). The invention achieves high frequency selectivityat substantially any frequency, including but not limited to RF (radiofrequency) and greater frequencies. It should be understood that theinvention is not limited to this example of RF and greater frequencies.The invention is intended, adapted, and capable of working with lowerthan radio frequencies.

FIG. 17 is a conceptual block diagram of a UDF module 1702 according toan embodiment of the present invention. The UDF module 1702 performs atleast frequency translation and frequency selectivity.

The effect achieved by the UDF module 1702 is to perform the frequencyselectivity operation prior to the performance of the frequencytranslation operation. Thus, the UDF module 1702 effectively performsinput filtering.

According to embodiments of the present invention, such input filteringinvolves a relatively narrow bandwidth. For example, such inputfiltering may represent channel select filtering, where the filterbandwidth may be, for example, 50 KHz to 150 KHz. It should beunderstood, however, that the invention is not limited to thesefrequencies. The invention is intended, adapted, and capable ofachieving filter bandwidths of less than and greater than these values.

In embodiments of the invention, input signals 1704 received by the UDFmodule 1702 are at radio frequencies. The UDF module 1702 effectivelyoperates to input filter these RF input signals 1704. Specifically, inthese embodiments, the UDF module 1702 effectively performs input,channel select filtering of the RF input signal 1704. Accordingly, theinvention achieves high selectivity at high frequencies.

The UDF module 1702 effectively performs various types of filtering,including but not limited to bandpass filtering, low pass filtering,high pass filtering, notch filtering, all pass filtering, band stopfiltering, etc., and combinations thereof.

Conceptually, the UDF module 1702 includes a frequency translator 1708.The frequency translator 1708 conceptually represents that portion ofthe UDF module 1702 that performs frequency translation (downconversion).

The UDF module 1702 also conceptually includes an apparent input filter1706 (also sometimes called an input filtering emulator). Conceptually,the apparent input filter 1706 represents that portion of the UDF module1702 that performs input filtering.

In practice, the input filtering operation performed by the UDF module1702 is integrated with the frequency translation operation. The inputfiltering operation can be viewed as being performed concurrently withthe frequency translation operation. This is a reason why the inputfilter 1706 is herein referred to as an “apparent” input filter 1706.

The UDF module 1702 of the present invention includes a number ofadvantages. For example, high selectivity at high frequencies isrealizable using the UDF module 1702. This feature of the invention isevident by the high Q factors that are attainable. For example, andwithout limitation, the UDF module 1702 can be designed with a filtercenter frequency f_(C) on the order of 900 MHZ, and a filter bandwidthon the order of 50 KHz. This represents a Q of 18,000 (Q is equal to thecenter frequency divided by the bandwidth).

It should be understood that the invention is not limited to filterswith high Q factors. The filters contemplated by the present inventionmay have lesser or greater Qs, depending on the application, design,and/or implementation. Also, the scope of the invention includes filterswhere Q factor as discussed herein is not applicable.

The invention exhibits additional advantages. For example, the filteringcenter frequency f_(C) of the UDF module 1702 can be electricallyadjusted, either statically or dynamically.

Also, the UDF module 1702 can be designed to amplify input signals.

Further, the UDF module 1702 can be implemented without large resistors,capacitors, or inductors. Also, the UDF module 1702 does not requirethat tight tolerances be maintained on the values of its individualcomponents, i.e., its resistors, capacitors, inductors, etc. As aresult, the architecture of the UDF module 1702 is friendly tointegrated circuit design techniques and processes.

The features and advantages exhibited by the UDF module 1702 areachieved at least in part by adopting a new technological paradigm withrespect to frequency selectivity and translation. Specifically,according to the present invention, the UDF module 1702 performs thefrequency selectivity operation and the frequency translation operationas a single, unified (integrated) operation. According to the invention,operations relating to frequency translation also contribute to theperformance of frequency selectivity, and vice versa.

According to embodiments of the present invention, the UDF modulegenerates an output signal from an input signal using samples/instancesof the input signal and samples/instances of the output signal.

More particularly, first, the input signal is under-sampled. This inputsample includes information (such as amplitude, phase, etc.)representative of the input signal existing at the time the sample wastaken.

As described further below, the effect of repetitively performing thisstep is to translate the frequency (that is, down-convert) of the inputsignal to a desired lower frequency, such as an intermediate frequency(IF) or baseband.

Next, the input sample is held (that is, delayed).

Then, one or more delayed input samples (some of which may have beenscaled) are combined with one or more delayed instances of the outputsignal (some of which may have been scaled) to generate a currentinstance of the output signal.

Thus, according to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the outputsignal is generated from prior samples/instances of the input signaland/or the output signal. (It is noted that, in some embodiments of theinvention, current samples/instances of the input signal and/or theoutput signal may be used to generate current instances of the outputsignal). By operating in this manner, the UDF module preferably performsinput filtering and frequency down-conversion in a unified manner.

FIG. 19 illustrates an example implementation of the unifieddown-converting and filtering (UDF) module 1922. The UDF module 1922performs the frequency translation operation and the frequencyselectivity operation in an integrated, unified manner as describedabove, and as further described below.

In the example of FIG. 19, the frequency selectivity operation performedby the UDF module 1922 comprises a band-pass filtering operationaccording to EQ. 1, below, which is an example representation of aband-pass filtering transfer function.VO=α ₁ z ⁻¹ VI−β ₁ z ⁻¹ VO−β ₁ z ⁻² VO  EQ. 1

It should be noted, however, that the invention is not limited toband-pass filtering. Instead, the invention effectively performs varioustypes of filtering, including but not limited to bandpass filtering, lowpass filtering, high pass filtering, notch filtering, all passfiltering, band stop filtering, etc., and combinations thereof. As willbe appreciated, there are many representations of any given filter type.The invention is applicable to these filter representations. Thus, EQ. 1is referred to herein for illustrative purposes only, and is notlimiting.

The UDF module 1922 includes a down-convert and delay module 1924, firstand second delay modules 1928 and 1930, first and second scaling modules1932 and 1934, an output sample and hold module 1936, and an (optional)output smoothing module 1938. Other embodiments of the UDF module willhave these components in different configurations, and/or a subset ofthese components, and/or additional components. For example, and withoutlimitation, in the configuration shown in FIG. 19, the output smoothingmodule 1938 is optional.

As further described below, in the example of FIG. 19, the down-convertand delay module 1924 and the first and second delay modules 1928 and1930 include switches that are controlled by a clock having two phases,φ₁ and φ_(z). φ₁ and φ_(z) preferably have the same frequency, and arenon-overlapping (alternatively, a plurality such as two clock signalshaving these characteristics could be used). As used herein, the term“non-overlapping” is defined as two or more signals where only one ofthe signals is active at any given time. In some embodiments, signalsare “active” when they are high. In other embodiments, signals areactive when they are low.

Preferably, each of these switches closes on a rising edge of φ₁ orφ_(z), and opens on the next corresponding falling edge of φ₁ or φ_(z).However, the invention is not limited to this example. As will beapparent to persons skilled in the relevant art(s), other clockconventions can be used to control the switches.

In the example of FIG. 19, it is assumed that α₁ is equal to one. Thus,the output of the down-convert and delay module 1924 is not scaled. Asevident from the embodiments described above, however, the invention isnot limited to this example.

The example UDF module 1922 has a filter center frequency of 900.2 MHZand a filter bandwidth of 570 KHz. The pass band of the UDF module 1922is on the order of 899.915 MHZ to 900.485 MHZ. The Q factor of the UDFmodule 1922 is approximately 1879 (i.e., 900.2 MHZ divided by 570 KHz).

The operation of the UDF module 1922 shall now be described withreference to a Table 1802 (FIG. 18) that indicates example values atnodes in the UDF module 1922 at a number of consecutive time increments.It is assumed in Table 1802 that the UDF module 1922 begins operating attime t−1. As indicated below, the UDF module 1922 reaches steady state afew time units after operation begins. The number of time unitsnecessary for a given UDF module to reach steady state depends on theconfiguration of the UDF module, and will be apparent to persons skilledin the relevant art(s) based on the teachings contained herein.

At the rising edge of φ₁ at time t−1, a switch 1950 in the down-convertand delay module 1924 closes. This allows a capacitor 1952 to charge tothe current value of an input signal, VI_(t−1), such that node 1902 isat VI_(t−1). This is indicated by cell 1804 in FIG. 18. In effect, thecombination of the switch 1950 and the capacitor 1952 in thedown-convert and delay module 1924 operates to translate the frequencyof the input signal VI to a desired lower frequency, such as IF orbaseband. Thus, the value stored in the capacitor 1952 represents aninstance of a down-converted image of the input signal VI.

The manner in which the down-convert and delay module 1924 performsfrequency down-conversion is further described elsewhere in thisapplication, and is additionally described in pending U.S. application“Method and System for Down-Converting Electromagnetic Signals,” Ser.No. 09/176,022, filed Oct. 21, 1998, which is herein incorporated byreference in its entirety.

Also at the rising edge of φ₁ at time t−1, a switch 1958 in the firstdelay module 1928 closes, allowing a capacitor 1960 to charge toVO_(t−1), such that node 1906 is at VO_(t−1). This is indicated by cell1806 in Table 1802. (In practice, VO_(t−1) is undefined at this point.However, for ease of understanding, VI_(t−1) shall continue to be usedfor purposes of explanation.)

Also at the rising edge of φ₁ at time t−1, a switch 1966 in the seconddelay module 1930 closes, allowing a capacitor 1968 to charge to a valuestored in a capacitor 1964. At this time, however, the value incapacitor 1964 is undefined, so the value in capacitor 1968 isundefined. This is indicated by cell 1807 in table 1802.

At the rising edge of φ_(z) at time t−1, a switch 1954 in thedown-convert and delay module 1924 closes, allowing a capacitor 1956 tocharge to the level of the capacitor 1952. Accordingly, the capacitor1956 charges to VI_(t−1), such that node 1904 is at VI_(t−1). This isindicated by cell 1810 in Table 1802.

The UDF module 1922 may optionally include a unity gain module 1990Abetween capacitors 1952 and 1956. The unity gain module 1990A operatesas a current source to enable capacitor 1956 to charge without drainingthe charge from capacitor 1952. For a similar reason, the UDF module1922 may include other unity gain modules 1990B-1990G. It should beunderstood that, for many embodiments and applications of the invention,these unity gain modules 1990A-1990G are optional. The structure andoperation of the unity gain modules 1990 will be apparent to personsskilled in the relevant art(s).

Also at the rising edge of φ_(z) at time t−1, a switch 1962 in the firstdelay module 1928 closes, allowing a capacitor 1964 to charge to thelevel of the capacitor 1960. Accordingly, the capacitor 1964 charges toVO_(t−1), such that node 1908 is at VO_(t−1). This is indicated by cell1814 in Table 1802.

Also at the rising edge of φ_(z) at time t−1, a switch 1970 in thesecond delay module 1930 closes, allowing a capacitor 1972 to charge toa value stored in a capacitor 1968. At this time, however, the value incapacitor 1968 is undefined, so the value in capacitor 1972 isundefined. This is indicated by cell 1815 in table 1802.

At time t, at the rising edge of φ₁, the switch 1950 in the down-convertand delay module 1924 closes. This allows the capacitor 1952 to chargeto VI_(t), such that node 1902 is at VI_(t). This is indicated in cell1816 of Table 1802.

Also at the rising edge of φ₁ at time t, the switch 1958 in the firstdelay module 1928 closes, thereby allowing the capacitor 1960 to chargeto VO_(t). Accordingly, node 1906 is at VO_(t). This is indicated incell 1820 in Table 1802.

Further at the rising edge of φ₁ at time t, the switch 1966 in thesecond delay module 1930 closes, allowing a capacitor 1968 to charge tothe level of the capacitor 1964. Therefore, the capacitor 1968 chargesto VO_(t−1), such that node 1910 is at VO_(t−1). This is indicated bycell 1824 in Table 1802.

At the rising edge of φ_(z) at time t, the switch 1954 in thedown-convert and delay module 1924 closes, allowing the capacitor 1956to charge to the level of the capacitor 1952. Accordingly, the capacitor1956 charges to VI_(t), such that node 1904 is at VI_(t). This isindicated by cell 1828 in Table 1802.

Also at the rising edge of φ_(z) at time t, the switch 1962 in the firstdelay module 1928 closes, allowing the capacitor 1964 to charge to thelevel in the capacitor 1960. Therefore, the capacitor 1964 charges toVO_(t), such that node 1908 is at VO_(t). This is indicated by cell 1832in Table 1802.

Further at the rising edge of φ_(z) at time t, the switch 1970 in thesecond delay module 1930 closes, allowing the capacitor 1972 in thesecond delay module 1930 to charge to the level of the capacitor 1968 inthe second delay module 1930. Therefore, the capacitor 1972 charges toVO_(t−1), such that node 1912 is at VO_(t−1). This is indicated in cell1836 of FIG. 18.

At time t+1, at the rising edge of φ₁, the switch 1950 in thedown-convert and delay module 1924 closes, allowing the capacitor 1952to charge to VI_(t−1). Therefore, node 1902 is at VI_(t+1), as indicatedby cell 1838 of Table 1802.

Also at the rising edge of φ₁ at time t+1, the switch 1958 in the firstdelay module 1928 closes, allowing the capacitor 1960 to charge toVO_(t+1). Accordingly, node 1906 is at VO_(t+1), as indicated by cell1842 in Table 1802.

Further at the rising edge of φ₁ at time t+1, the switch 1966 in thesecond delay module 1930 closes, allowing the capacitor 1968 to chargeto the level of the capacitor 1964. Accordingly, the capacitor 1968charges to VO_(t), as indicated by cell 1846 of Table 1802.

In the example of FIG. 19, the first scaling module 1932 scales thevalue at node 1908 (i.e., the output of the first delay module 1928) bya scaling factor of −0.1. Accordingly, the value present at node 1914 attime t+1 is −0.1*VO_(t). Similarly, the second scaling module 1934scales the value present at node 1912 (i.e., the output of the secondscaling module 1930) by a scaling factor of −0.8. Accordingly, the valuepresent at node 1916 is −0.8*VO_(t−1) at time t+1.

At time t+1, the values at the inputs of the summer 1926 are: VI_(t) atnode 1904, −0.1*VO_(t) at node 1914, and −0.8*VO_(t−1) at node 1916 (inthe example of FIG. 19, the values at nodes 1914 and 1916 are summed bya second summer 1925, and this sum is presented to the summer 1926).Accordingly, at time t+1, the summer generates a signal equal toVI_(t)−0.1*VO_(t)−0.8*VO_(t−1).

At the rising edge of φ₁ at time t+1, a switch 1991 in the output sampleand hold module 1936 closes, thereby allowing a capacitor 1992 to chargeto VO_(t−1) Accordingly, the capacitor 1992 charges to VO_(t+1) which isequal to the sum generated by the adder 1926. As just noted, this valueis equal to: VI_(t)−0.1*VO_(t)−0.8*VO_(t−1). This is indicated in cell1850 of Table 1802. This value is presented to the optional outputsmoothing module 1938, which smoothes the signal to thereby generate theinstance of the output signal VO_(t+1). It is apparent from inspectionthat this value of VO_(t+1) is consistent with the band pass filtertransfer function of EQ. 1.

Further details of unified down-conversion and filtering as described inthis section are presented in pending U.S. application “IntegratedFrequency Translation And Selectivity,” Ser. No. 09/175,966, filed Oct.21, 1998, incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

Example Application Embodiments of the Invention

As noted above, the UFT module of the present invention is a verypowerful and flexible device. Its flexibility is illustrated, in part,by the wide range of applications in which it can be used. Its power isillustrated, in part, by the usefulness and performance of suchapplications.

Example applications of the UFT module were described above. Inparticular, frequency down-conversion, frequency up-conversion, enhancedsignal reception, and unified down-conversion and filtering applicationsof the UFT module were summarized above, and are further describedbelow. These applications of the UFT module are discussed herein forillustrative purposes. The invention is not limited to these exampleapplications. Additional applications of the UFT module will be apparentto persons skilled in the relevant art(s), based on the teachingscontained herein.

For example, the present invention can be used in applications thatinvolve frequency down-conversion. This is shown in FIG. 1C, forexample, where an example UFT module 115 is used in a down-conversionmodule 114. In this capacity, the UFT module 115 frequency down-convertsan input signal to an output signal. This is also shown in FIG. 7, forexample, where an example UFT module 706 is part of a down-conversionmodule 704, which is part of a receiver 702.

The present invention can be used in applications that involve frequencyup-conversion. This is shown in FIG. 1D, for example, where an exampleUFT module 117 is used in a frequency up-conversion module 116. In thiscapacity, the UFT module 117 frequency up-converts an input signal to anoutput signal. This is also shown in FIG. 8, for example, where anexample UFT module 806 is part of up-conversion module 804, which ispart of a transmitter 802.

The present invention can be used in environments having one or moretransmitters 902 and one or more receivers 906, as illustrated in FIG.9. In such environments, one or more of the transmitters 902 may beimplemented using a UFT module, as shown for example in FIG. 8. Also,one or more of the receivers 906 may be implemented using a UFT module,as shown for example in FIG. 7.

The invention can be used to implement a transceiver. An exampletransceiver 1002 is illustrated in FIG. 10. The transceiver 1002includes a transmitter 1004 and a receiver 1008. Either the transmitter1004 or the receiver 1008 can be implemented using a UFT module.Alternatively, the transmitter 1004 can be implemented using a UFTmodule 1006, and the receiver 1008 can be implemented using a UFT module1010. This embodiment is shown in FIG. 10.

Another transceiver embodiment according to the invention is shown inFIG. 11. In this transceiver 1102, the transmitter 1104 and the receiver1108 are implemented using a single UFT module 1106. In other words, thetransmitter 1104 and the receiver 1108 share a LIFT module 1106.

As described elsewhere in this application, the invention is directed tomethods and systems for enhanced signal reception (ESR). Various ESRembodiments include an ESR module (transmit) in a transmitter 1202, andan ESR module (receive) in a receiver 1210. An example ESR embodimentconfigured in this manner is illustrated in FIG. 12.

The ESR module (transmit) 1204 includes a frequency up-conversion module1206. Some embodiments of this frequency up-conversion module 1206 maybe implemented using a UFT module, such as that shown in FIG. 1D.

The ESR module (receive) 1212 includes a frequency down-conversionmodule 1214. Some embodiments of this frequency down-conversion module1214 may be implemented using a UFT module, such as that shown in FIG.1C.

As described elsewhere in this application, the invention is directed tomethods and systems for unified down-conversion and filtering (UDF). Anexample unified down-conversion and filtering module 1302 is illustratedin FIG. 13. The unified down-conversion and filtering module 1302includes a frequency down-conversion module 1304 and a filtering module1306. According to the invention, the frequency down-conversion module1304 and the filtering module 1306 are implemented using a UFT module1308, as indicated in FIG. 13.

Unified down-conversion and filtering according to the invention isuseful in applications involving filtering and/or frequencydown-conversion. This is depicted, for example, in FIGS. 15A-15F. FIGS.15A-15C indicate that unified down-conversion and filtering according tothe invention is useful in applications where filtering precedes,follows, or both precedes and follows frequency down-conversion. FIG.15D indicates that a unified down-conversion and filtering module 1524according to the invention can be utilized as a filter 1522 (i.e., wherethe extent of frequency down-conversion by the down-converter in theunified down-conversion and filtering module 1524 is minimized). FIG.15E indicates that a unified down-conversion and filtering module 1528according to the invention can be utilized as a down-converter 1526(i.e., where the filter in the unified down-conversion and filteringmodule 1528 passes substantially all frequencies). FIG. 15F illustratesthat the unified down-conversion and filtering module 1532 can be usedas an amplifier. It is noted that one or more UDF modules can be used inapplications that involve at least one or more of filtering, frequencytranslation, and amplification.

For example, receivers, which typically perform filtering,down-conversion, and filtering operations, can be implemented using oneor more unified down-conversion and filtering modules. This isillustrated, for example, in FIG. 14.

The methods and systems of unified down-conversion and filtering of theinvention have many other applications. For example, as discussedherein, the enhanced signal reception (ESR) module (receive) operates todown-convert a signal containing a plurality of spectrums. The ESRmodule (receive) also operates to isolate the spectrums in thedown-converted signal, where such isolation is implemented via filteringin some embodiments. According to embodiments of the invention, the ESRmodule (receive) is implemented using one or more unifieddown-conversion and filtering (UDF) modules. This is illustrated, forexample, in FIG. 16. In the example of FIG. 16, one or more of the UDFmodules 1610, 1612, 1614 operates to down-convert a received signal. TheUDF modules 1610, 1612, 1614 also operate to filter the down-convertedsignal so as to isolate the spectrum(s) contained therein. As notedabove, the UDF modules 1610, 1612, 1614 are implemented using theuniversal frequency translation (UFT) modules of the invention.

The invention is not limited to the applications of the UFT moduledescribed above. For example, and without limitation, subsets of theapplications (methods and/or structures) described herein (and othersthat would be apparent to persons skilled in the relevant art(s) basedon the herein teachings) can be associated to form useful combinations.

For example, transmitters and receivers are two applications of the UFTmodule. FIG. 10 illustrates a transceiver 1002 that is formed bycombining these two applications of the UFT module, i.e., by combining atransmitter 1004 with a receiver 1008.

Also, ESR (enhanced signal reception) and unified down-conversion andfiltering are two other applications of the UFT module. FIG. 16illustrates an example where ESR and unified down-conversion andfiltering are combined to form a modified enhanced signal receptionsystem.

The invention is not limited to the example applications of the UFTmodule discussed herein. Also, the invention is not limited to theexample combinations of applications of the UFT module discussed herein.These examples were provided for illustrative purposes only, and are notlimiting. Other applications and combinations of such applications willbe apparent to persons skilled in the relevant art(s) based on theteachings contained herein. Such applications and combinations include,for example and without limitation, applications/combinations comprisingand/or involving one or more of: (1) frequency translation; (2)frequency down-conversion; (3) frequency up-conversion; (4) receiving;(5) transmitting; (6) filtering; and/or (7) signal transmission andreception in environments containing potentially jamming signals.

Additional example applications are described below.

Telephones

The present invention is directed to telephones that employ the UFTmodule for performing down-conversion and/or up conversion operations.According to embodiments of the invention, telephones include a receiverthat uses a UFT module for frequency down-conversion (see, for example,FIG. 7), and/or a transmitter that uses a UFT module for frequencyup-conversion (see, for example, FIG. 8). Alternatively, telephoneembodiments of the invention employ a transceiver that utilizes one ormore UFT modules for performing frequency down-conversion and/orup-conversion operations, as shown, for example, in FIGS. 10 and 11.

Any type of telephone falls within the scope and spirit of the presentinvention, including but not limited to cordless phones (wherein UFTmodules can be used in both the base unit and the handset to communicatetherebetween, and in the base unit to communicate with the telephonecompany via wired or wireless service), cellular phones, satellitephones, etc.

FIG. 25 illustrates an example environment 2502 illustrating cellularphones and satellite phones according to embodiments of the invention.Cellular phones 2504, 2508, 2512 and 2516 each include a transceiver2506, 2510, 2514, and 2518, respectively. Transceivers 2506, 2510, 2514,and 2518 enable their respective cellular phones to communicate via awireless communication medium with base stations 2520, 2524. Accordingto the invention, the transceivers 2506, 2510, 2514, and 2518 areimplemented using one or more UFT modules. FIGS. 10 and 11 illustrateexample transceivers 1002 and 1102 operable for use with the cellularphones of the present invention. Alternatively, one or more of cellulartelephones 2504, 2508, 2512, and 2516 may employ transmitter modules andreceiver modules. Either or both of such transmitter modules andreceiver modules may be implemented using UFT modules as shown in FIGS.7 and 8, for example.

FIG. 25 also illustrates a satellite telephone 2590 that communicatesvia satellites, such as satellite 2526. The satellite telephone 2590includes a transceiver 2592, which is preferably implemented using oneor more UFT modules, such as shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, for example.Alternatively, the satellite phone 2590 may include a receiver moduleand a transmitter module, wherein either or both of the receiver moduleand the transmitter module is implemented using a UFT module, as shown,for example, in FIGS. 7 and 8.

FIG. 25 also illustrates a cordless phone 2590 having a handset 2592 anda base station 2596. The handset 2592 and the base station 2596 includetransceivers 2594, 2598 for communicating with each other preferablyover a wireless link. Transceivers 2594, 2598 are preferably implementedusing one or more UFT modules, such as shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, forexample. Alternatively, transceivers 2594, 2598 each may be replaced bya receiver module and a transmitter module, wherein either or both ofthe receiver module and the transmitter module is implemented using aUFT module, as shown, for example, in FIGS. 7 and 8. In embodiments, thebase station 2596 of the cordless phone 2590 may communicate with thebase station 2520 via transceivers 2598, 2521, or using othercommunication modules.

Base Stations

The invention is directed to communication base stations that generallyrepresent interfaces between telephones and telephone networks. Examplebase stations 2520, 2524 according to the invention are illustrated inFIG. 25. The invention is directed to other types of base stations, suchas but not limited to base stations in cordless phones (see, forexample, base station 2596 in cordless phone 2590 in FIG. 25). The basestations 2520, 2524, 2596 each include a transceiver 2521, 2525, 2598.According to embodiments of the invention, the transceivers 2521, 2525,2598 are each implemented using one or more UFT modules (see, forexample, FIGS. 10 and 11). Alternatively, the base stations 2520, 2524,2596 can be implemented using receiver modules and transmitter modules,wherein either or both of the receiver and transmitter modules areimplemented using UFT modules (see, for example, FIGS. 7 and 8).

As illustrated in FIG. 25, base stations 2520, 2524, 2596 operate toconnect telephones together via telephone networks 2522, satellites2526, or other communication mediums, such as but not limited to datanetworks (such as the Internet). Also, the base stations 2520, 2524,enable telephones (such as cellular telephones 2508, 2512) tocommunicate with each other via a base station 2520 and not through anetwork or other intermediate communication medium. This is illustrated,for example, by dotted data flow line 2528.

The invention is directed to all types of base stations, such as macrobase stations (operating in networks that are relatively large), microbase stations (operating in networks that are relatively small),satellite base stations (operating with satellites), cellular basestations (operating in a cellular telephone networks), datacommunication base stations (operating as gateways to computernetworks), etc.

Positioning

The invention is directed to positioning devices that enable thedetermination of the location of an object.

FIG. 26 illustrates an example positioning unit 2608 according to anembodiment of the invention. The positioning unit 2608 includes areceiver 2610 for receiving positioning information from satellites,such as satellites 2604, 2606. Such positioning information is processedin a well known manner by a positioning module 2614 to determine thelocation of the positioning unit 2608. Preferably, the receiver 2610 isimplemented using a UFT module for performing frequency down-conversionoperations (see, for example, FIG. 7).

The positioning unit 2608 may include an optional transmitter 2612 fortransmitting commands and/or other information to satellites 2604, 2606,or to other destinations. In an embodiment, the transmitter 2612 isimplemented using a UFT module for performing frequency up-conversionoperations (see, for example, FIG. 8).

In an embodiment, the receiver 2610 and the optional transmitter 2612are replaced in the positioning unit 2608 by a transceiver whichincludes one or more UFT modules (see, for example, FIGS. 10 and 11).

The invention is directed to all types of positioning systems, such asbut not limited to global positioning systems (GPS), differential GPS,local GPS, etc.

Data Communication

The invention is directed to data communication among data processingdevices. For example, and without limitation, the invention is directedto computer networks (such as, for example, local area networks and widearea networks), modems, etc.

FIG. 27 illustrates an example environment 2702 wherein computers 2704,2712, and 2726 are communicating with one another via a computer network2734. In the example of FIG. 27, computer 2704 is communicating with thenetwork 2734 via a wired link, whereas computers 2712 and 2726 arecommunicating with the network 2734 via wireless links.

In the teachings contained herein, for illustrative purposes, a link maybe designated as being a wired link or a wireless link. Suchdesignations are for example purposes only, and are not limiting. A linkdesignated as being wireless may alternatively be wired. Similarly, alink designated as being wired may alternatively be wireless. This isapplicable throughout the entire application.

The computers 2704, 2712 and 2726 each include an interface 2706, 2714,and 2728, respectively, for communicating with the network 2734. Theinterfaces 2706, 2714, and 2728 include transmitters 2708, 2716, and2730 respectively. Also, the interfaces 2706, 2714 and 2728 includereceivers 2710, 2718, and 2732 respectively. In embodiments of theinvention, the transmitters 2708, 2716 and 2730 are implemented usingUFT modules for performing frequency up-conversion operations (see, forexample, FIG. 8). In embodiments, the receivers 2710, 2718 and 2732 areimplemented using UFT modules for performing frequency down-conversionoperations (see, for example, FIG. 7).

As noted above, the computers 2712 and 2726 interact with the network2734 via wireless links. In embodiments of the invention, the interfaces2714, 2728 in computers 2712, 2726 represent modems.

In embodiments, the network 2734 includes an interface or modem 2720 forcommunicating with the modems 2714, 2728 in the computers 2712, 2726. Inembodiments, the interface 2720 includes a transmitter 2722, and areceiver 2724. Either or both of the transmitter 2722, and the receiver2724 are implemented using UFT modules for performing frequencytranslation operations (see, for example, FIGS. 7 and 8).

In alternative embodiments, one or more of the interfaces 2706, 2714,2720, and 2728 are implemented using transceivers that employ one ormore UFT modules for performing frequency translation operations (see,for example, FIGS. 10 and 11).

FIG. 28 illustrates another example data communication embodiment 2802.Each of a plurality of computers 2804, 2812, 2814 and 2816 includes aninterface, such as an interface 2806 shown in the computer 2804. Itshould be understood that the other computers 2812, 2814, 2816 alsoinclude an interface such as an interface 2806. The computers 2804,2812, 2814 and 2816 communicate with each other via interfaces 2806 andwireless or wired links, thereby collectively representing a datacommunication network.

The interfaces 2806 may represent any computer interface or port, suchas but not limited to a high speed internal interface, a wireless serialport, a wireless PS2 port, a wireless USB port, etc.

The interface 2806 includes a transmitter 2808 and a receiver 2810. Inembodiments of the invention, either or both of the transmitter 2808 andthe receiver 2810 are implemented using UFT modules for frequencyup-conversion and down-conversion (see, for example, FIGS. 7 and 8).Alternatively, the interfaces 2806 can be implemented using atransceiver having one or more UFT modules for performing frequencytranslation operations (see, for example, FIGS. 10 and 11).

Pagers

The invention is directed to pagers that employ UFT modules forperforming frequency translation operations.

FIG. 29 illustrates an example pager 2902 according to an embodiment ofthe invention. Pager 2902 includes a receiver 2906 for receiving pagingmessages. In embodiments of the invention, the receiver 2906 isimplemented using a UFT module for performing frequency down-conversionoperations (see, for example, FIG. 7).

The pager 2902 may also include a transmitter 2908 for sending pages,responses to pages, or other messages. In embodiments of the invention,the transmitter 2908 employs a UFT module for performing up-conversionoperations (see, for example, FIG. 8).

In alternative embodiments of the invention, the receiver 2906 and thetransmitter 2908 are replaced by a transceiver that employs one or moreUFT modules for performing frequency translation operations (see, forexample, FIGS. 10 and 11).

The pager 2902 also includes a display 2904 for displaying pagingmessages. Alternatively, or additionally, the pager 2902 includes othermechanisms for indicating the receipt of a page such as an audiomechanism that audibly indicates the receipt of a page, or a vibrationmechanism that causes the pager 2902 to vibrate when a page is received.

The invention is directed to all types of pagers, such as and withoutlimitation, one way pagers, two way pagers, etc. FIG. 30 illustrates aone way pager 3004 that includes a receiver 3006. The one way pager 3004is capable of only receiving pages. In the scenario of FIG. 30, the oneway pager 3004 receives a page 3005 from an entity which issues pages3008. The one way pager 3004 includes a receiver 3006 that isimplemented using a UFT module for performing frequency down-conversionoperations (see, for example FIG. 7).

FIG. 30 also illustrates a two way pager 3010. The two way pager 3010 iscapable of receiving paging messages and of transmitting pages,responses to paging messages, and/or other messages. The two way pager3010 includes a receiver 3012 for receiving messages, and a transmitter3014 for transmitting messages. One or both of the receiver 3012 and thetransmitter 3014 may be implemented using UFT modules for performingfrequency translation operations (see, for example, FIGS. 7 and 8).Alternatively, the receiver 3010 and the transmitter 3014 can bereplaced by a transceiver that employs one or more UFT modules forperforming frequency translation operations (see, for example, FIGS. 10and 11).

Security

The invention is directed to security systems having components whichare implemented using UFT modules for performing frequency translationoperations. FIG. 31 illustrates an example security system 3102 whichwill be used to describe this aspect of the invention.

The security system 3102 includes sensors which sense potentialintrusion/hazard events, such as the opening of a window, the opening ofa door, the breakage of glass, motion, the application of pressure onfloors, the disruption of laser beams, fire, smoke, carbon monoxide,etc. Upon detecting an intrusion/hazard event, the sensors transmit anintrusion/hazard event message to a monitor panel 3116 that includes amonitor and alarm module 3120. The monitor and alarm module 3120processes intrusion/hazard event messages in a well known manner. Suchprocessing may include, for example, sending messages via a wired link3134 or a wireless link 3136 to a monitoring center 3130, which may inturn alert appropriate authorities 3132 (such as the police, the firedepartment, an ambulance service, etc.).

FIG. 31 illustrates a one way sensor 3109 that is positioned, forexample, to detect the opening of a door 3106. The one way sensor 3109is not limited to this application, as would be apparent to personsskilled in the relevant arts. The one way sensor 3109 includes contacts3108 and 3110 that are positioned on the door 3106 and the frame 3104 ofthe door 3106. When the contacts 3108 and 3110 are displaced from oneanother, indicating the opening of the door 3106, a transmitter 3112contained in the contact 3110 transmits an intrusion/hazard eventmessage 3114 to the monitor panel 3116.

In an embodiment, the one way sensor 3109 also transmits status messagesto the monitor panel 3116. Preferably, these status messages aretransmitted during a time period that is assigned to the one way sensor3109. The status messages include information that indicates the statusof the one way sensor 3109, such as if the sensor 3109 is operatingwithin normal parameters, or if the sensor 3109 is damaged in some way.The monitor panel 3116, upon receiving the status messages, takesappropriate action. For example, if a status message indicates that thesensor 3109 is damaged, then the monitor panel 3116 may display amessage to this effect, and/or may transmit a call for service. If themonitor panel 3116 does not receive a status message from the one waysensor 3109 in the time period assigned to the one way sensor 3109, thenthe monitor panel 3116 may issue an alarm indicating a potentialintrusion or other breach in perimeter security.

Preferably, the transmitter 3112 is implemented using a UFT module toperform frequency up-conversion operations (see, for example, FIG. 8).

The one way sensor 3109 is capable of only transmitting. The inventionis also directed to two way sensors, an example of which is shown as3125. The two way sensor 3125 is shown in FIG. 31 as being positioned todetect the opening of a door 3138. The two way sensor 3125 is notlimited to this application, as would be apparent to persons skilled inthe relevant arts.

The two way sensor 3125 includes contacts 3124 and 3126 for detectingthe opening of the door 3138. Upon detection of the opening of the door3138, a transceiver 3128 in contact 3126 sends an intrusion/hazard eventmessage to the monitor panel 3116. Preferably, the transceiver 3128 isimplemented using one or more UFT modules for performing frequencytranslation operations (see, for example, FIGS. 10 and 11).Alternatively, the two way sensor 3125 may employ a receiver and atransmitter, wherein one or both of the receiver and transmitterincludes UFT modules for performing frequency translation operations(see, for example, FIGS. 7 and 8).

The two way sensor 3125 is capable of both receiving and transmittingmessages. Specifically, as just discussed, the transceiver 3128 in thetwo way sensor 3125 sends intrusion/hazard event messages to the monitorpanel 3116. Additionally, the two way sensor 3125 may receive commandsor other messages (such as polls) from the monitor panel 3116 via thetransceiver 3128.

In an embodiment, the two way sensor 3125 also transmits status messagesto the monitor panel 3116. In an embodiment, these status messages aretransmitted during a time period that is assigned to the two way sensor3125. The nature of these status message is described above. In analternative embodiment, the monitor panel 3116 polls for statusmessages. When the two way sensor 3125 receives an appropriate pollingmessage, it transmits its status message to the monitor panel 3116. Ifthe monitor panel 3116 does not receive a status message in response toa polling message, then it may issue an alarm indicating a potentialintrusion or other breach in perimeter security.

The monitor panel 3116 includes a transceiver 3118 for communicatingwith sensors, such as sensors 3109 and 3125, and for also communicatingwith external entities, such as monitoring center 3130, appropriateauthorities 3132, etc. The transceiver 3118 is preferably implementedusing one or more UFT modules for performing frequency translationoperations (see, for example, FIGS. 10 and 11). Alternatively, thetransceiver 3118 may be replaced by a receiver and a transmitter,wherein one or both of the receiver and transmitter is implemented usingUFT modules for performing frequency translation operations (see, forexample, FIGS. 7 and 8).

In an embodiment, the monitor panel 3116 communicates with themonitoring center 3130 via a wired telephone line 3134. However,communication over the telephone line 3134 may not always be possible.For example, at times, the telephone line 3134 may be inoperative due tonatural events, failure, maintenance, sabotage, etc. Accordingly,embodiments of the invention include a back-up communication mechanism.For example, in FIG. 31, the monitor panel 3116 includes a cellularphone backup system for communication with the monitoring center 3130.This wireless link between the monitor panel 3116 and the monitoringcenter 3130 is represented by dotted line 3136. The transceiver 3118 (orperhaps another transceiver contained in the monitoring panel 3116 orlocated proximate thereto) communicates with the monitor center 3130 viathe wireless link 3136. As noted, the transceiver 3118 is preferablyimplemented using one or more UFT modules for performing frequencytranslation operations (see, for example, FIGS. 10 and 11).

Repeaters

The invention is directed to communication repeaters which, generally,receive a signal, optionally amplify the signal, and then transmit theamplified signal at the same or different frequency or frequencies. Arepeater is often used in combination with one or more other repeatersto transmit a signal from a first point to a second point, where thefirst and second points are widely spaced from one another and/or arenot in line of sight with one another.

This is illustrated, for example, in FIG. 32, where a signal is beingtransmitted from a station 3204 to another station 3218, where stations3204, 3218 are separated by a mountain. Signals from station 3204 aresent to station 3218 via repeaters 3206, 3208, and 3210. Similarly,signals from station 3218 are sent to station 3204 via repeaters 3206,3208, and 3210.

Each of the repeaters 3206, 3208, 3210 includes a transceiver 3212,3214, 3216, respectively. In embodiments of the invention, thetransceivers 3212, 3214, 3216 are implemented using UFT modules forperforming frequency translation operations (see, for example, FIGS. 10and 11). Alternatively, the transceivers 3212, 3214, 3216 may bereplaced by receivers and transmitters, wherein the receivers andtransmitters are implemented using UFT modules for performing frequencytranslation operations (see, for example, FIGS. 7 and 8).

The invention includes all types of repeaters. For example, the repeaterscenario described above represents a long distance or long range use ofrepeaters (for example, macro use). The invention is also applicable toshort distance use of repeaters (for example, micro use). An example ofthis is shown in FIG. 32, where a repeater 3252 having a transceiver3254 is positioned in a building or home 3250. The repeater 3252 relayssignals from a cell phone 3256 or other communication device (such as acomputer with a modem, a television with an input for programming, asecurity system, a home control system, etc.) to a base station 3218and/or another repeater 3210. In the example scenario of FIG. 32, thecombination of the cell phone 3256 and the repeater 3252 is generallysimilar to a cordless telephone. In embodiments of the invention, thetransceivers 3254, 3258 are implemented using UFT modules for performingfrequency translation operations (see, for example, FIGS. 10 and 11).Alternatively, the transceivers 3254, 3258 may be replaced by receiversand transmitters, wherein the receivers and transmitters are implementedusing UFT modules for performing frequency translation operations (see,for example, FIGS. 7 and 8).

Mobile Radios

The invention is directed to mobile radios that use UFT modules forperforming frequency translation operations. The invention is applicableto all types of mobile radios operating in any and all bands for any andall services, such as but not limited to walkie-talkies, citizen band,business, ISM (Industrial Scientific Medical), amateur radio, weatherband, etc. See FIGS. 42A-42D for example frequency bands operable withthe present invention (the invention is not limited to these bands).

FIG. 33 illustrates an example scenario 3302 where a first mobile radio3304 is communicating with a second mobile radio 3306. Each of themobile radios 3304, 3306 includes a transmitter 3308, 3312 and areceiver 3310, 3314, respectively. The transmitter 3308, 3312, and/orthe receivers 3310, 3314 are implemented using UFT modules forperforming frequency translation operations (see, for example, FIGS. 7and 8). Alternatively, the transmitters 3308, 3312 and the receivers3310, 3314 can be replaced by transceivers which utilize one or more UFTmodules for performing frequency translation operations (see, forexample, FIGS. 10 and 11).

The invention is also directed to receive-only radios, such as the radio4402 shown in FIG. 44. The radio 4402 includes a receiver 4404 toreceive broadcasts. The radio 4402 also includes a speaker 4406 andother well known radio modules 4408. The radio 4402 may work in anyband, such as but not limited to AM, FM, weather band, etc. See FIGS.42A-42D for an example of the bands. The receiver 4404 is preferablyimplemented using a UFT module (see, for example, FIG. 7).

Satellite Up/Down Links

The invention is directed to systems and methods for communicating viasatellites. This includes, for example, direct satellite systems (DSS),direct broadcast satellite (DBS), ultra wideband public/privateservices, etc.

FIG. 34 illustrates an example environment 3402 where contenttransmitted from a content provider 3420 is received by a private home3404 via a satellite 3416. A satellite unit 3408 is located in the home3404. The satellite unit 3408 includes a receiver 3410 for receivingsignals from the satellite 3416 and a transmitter 3412 for transmittingsignals to the satellite 3416.

In operation, the content provider 3420 transmits content to thesatellite 3416, which then broadcasts that content. The content isreceived at the home 3404 by an antenna or satellite dish 3414. Thereceived signals are provided to the receiver 3410 of the satellite unit3408, which then down-converts and demodulates, as necessary, thesignal. The data is then provided to a monitor 3406 for presentation tothe user. The monitor 3406 may be any device capable of receiving anddisplaying the content from the content provider 3420, such as a TV, acomputer monitor, etc. In embodiments of the invention, the receiver3410 and/or the transmitter 3412 are implemented using UFT modules forperforming frequency translation operations (see, for example, FIGS. 7and 8). In other embodiments, the receiver 3410 and the transmitter 3412are replaced by a transceiver which employs one or more UFT modules forperforming frequency translation operations (see, for example, FIGS. 10and 11).

The satellite unit 3408 can be used to send and receive large amounts ofdata via ultra wide band satellite channels. For example, in addition toreceiving content from the content provider, is possible to use thesatellite unit 3408 to exchange data with other locations 3418 via thesatellite links provided by satellites (such as satellite 3416).

Command and Control

The invention is directed to command and control applications. Examplecommand and control applications are described below for illustrativepurposes. The invention is not limited to these examples.

PC Peripherals

The present invention is directed to computer peripherals thatcommunicate with a computer over a wireless communication medium. FIG.35 illustrates an example computer 3502 which includes a number ofperipherals such as but not limited to a monitor 3506, a keyboard 3510,a mouse 3514, a storage device 3518, and an interface/port 3522. Itshould be understood that the peripherals shown in FIG. 35 are presentedfor illustrative purposes only, and are not limiting. The invention isdirected to all devices that may interact with a computer.

The peripherals shown in FIG. 35 interact with a computer 3502 via awireless communication medium. The computer 3502 includes one or moretransceivers 3504 for communicating with peripherals. Preferably, thetransceivers 3504 are implemented using UFT modules for performingfrequency translation operations (see, for example, FIGS. 10 and 11).Alternatively, the transceiver 3504 in the computer 3502 may be replacedby receivers and transmitters, wherein any of the receivers andtransmitters are implemented by using UFT modules for performingfrequency translation operations (see, for example, FIGS. 7 and 8).

Each of the peripherals includes a transceiver for communicating withthe computer 3502. In embodiments of the invention, the transceivers areimplemented using UFT modules for performing frequency translationoperations (see, for example, FIGS. 10 and 11). In other embodiments,the transceivers are replaced by receivers and transmitters which areimplemented by UFT modules for performing frequency translationoperations (see, for example, FIGS. 7 and 8).

The computer 3502 may send a signal to the peripherals that indicatesthat it is receiving signals from the peripherals. The peripherals couldthen provide an indication that a link with the computer 3502 isestablished (such as, for example, turning a green light on).

In some embodiments, some peripherals may be transmit-only, in whichcase they would include a transmitter instead of a transceiver. Someperipherals which may be transmit only include, for example, thekeyboard 3510, the mouse 3514, and/or the monitor 3506. Preferably, thetransmitter is implemented using a UFT module for performing frequencyup-conversion operations (see, for example, FIG. 8).

Building/Home Functions

The invention is directed to devices for controlling home functions. Forexample, and without limitation, the invention is directed tocontrolling thermostats, meter reading, smart controls, including C-Busand X-10, garage door openers, intercoms, video rabbits, audio rabbits,etc. These examples are provided for purposes of illustration, and notlimitation. The invention includes other home functions, appliances, anddevices, as will be apparent to persons skilled in the relevant art(s)based on the teachings contained herein.

FIG. 36 illustrates an example home control unit 3604. The home controlunit 3604 includes one or more transceivers 3606 for interacting withremote devices. In embodiments of the invention, the transceivers 3606are implemented using UFT modules for performing frequency translationoperations (see, for example, FIGS. 10 and 11). In other embodiments,the transceivers 3606 are replaced by receivers and transmitters thatemploy UFT modules for performing frequency translation operations (see,for example, FIGS. 7 and 8). In some embodiments, the home control unit3604 can be transmit only, in which case the transceiver 3606 isreplaced by a transmitter which is preferably implemented using a UFTmodule.

The home control unit 3604 interacts with remote devices for remotelyaccessing, controlling, and otherwise interacting with home functionaldevices. For example, the home control unit 3604 can be used to controlappliances 3608 such as, but not limited to, lamps, televisions,computers, video recorders, audio recorders, answering machines, etc.The appliances 3608 are coupled to one or more interfaces 3610. Theinterfaces 3610 each includes a transceiver 3612 for communicating withthe home control 3604. The transceiver 3612 includes one or more UFTmodules for performing frequency translation operations (see, forexample, FIGS. 10 and 11). Alternatively, the interfaces 3610 eachincludes a receiver and a transmitter, either or both of which includeUFT modules for performing frequency translation operations (see, forexample, FIGS. 7 and 8).

The home control unit 3604 can also remotely access and control otherhome devices, such as a thermostat 3618 and a garage door opener 3614.Such devices which interact with the home control unit 3604 includetransceivers, such as transceiver 3620 in the thermostat 3618, andtransceiver 3616 in the garage opener 3614. The transceivers 3620, 3616include UFT modules for performing frequency translation operations(see, for example, FIGS. 10 and 11). Alternatively, the transceivers3616, 3620 can be replaced by receivers and transmitters for performingtranslation operations (see, for example, FIGS. 7 and 8).

The invention is also directed to the control of home electronicdevices, such as but not limited to televisions, VCRs, stereos, CDplayers, amplifiers, tuners, computers, video games, etc. For example,FIG. 36 illustrates a television 3650 and a VCR 3654 having receivers3652, 3656 for receiving control signals from remote control(s) 3658,where each of the remote control(s) 3658 includes a transmitter 3660.The receivers 3652, 3656 are preferably implemented using UFT modules(see, for example, FIG. 7), and the transmitter 3660 is preferablyimplemented using a UFT module (see, for example, FIG. 8).

In some cases, it may be necessary to install an adapter 3666 to enablea device to operate with remote control(s) 3658. Consider a stereo 3662having an infrared receiver 3664 to receive infrared control signals.Depending on their implementation, some embodiments of the remotecontrol(s) 3658 may not transmit signals that can be accurately receivedby the infrared receiver 3664. In such cases, it is possible to locateor affix a receiver 3668 (preferably implemented using a UFT module) andan adapter 3666 to the stereo 3662. The receiver 3668 operates toreceive control signals from the remote control(s) 3658. The adapter3666 converts the received signals to signals that can be received bythe infrared receiver 3664.

The invention can also be used to enable the remote access to homecontrol components by external entities. For example, FIG. 37illustrates a scenario 3702 where a utility company 3704 remotelyaccesses a utility meter 3710 that records the amount of utilities usedin the home 3708. The utility company 3704 may represent, for example, aservice vehicle or a site or office. The utility meter 3710 and theutility company 3704 include transceivers 3712, 3706, respectively, forcommunicating with each other. Preferably, the transceivers 3706, 3712utilize UFT modules for performing frequency translation operations(see, for example, FIGS. 10 and 11). Alternatively, the transceivers3706, 3712 are replaced by receivers and transmitters, wherein thereceivers and/or transmitters are implemented using UFT modules forperforming frequency translation operations (see, for example, FIGS. 7and 8).

The invention is also directed to other home devices. For example, andwithout limitation, the invention is directed to intercoms. As shown inFIG. 38, intercoms 3804, 3806 include transceivers 3808, 3810,respectively, for communicating with other. In embodiments of theinvention, the transceivers 3808, 3810 include UFT modules forperforming frequency translation operations (see, for example, FIGS. 10and 11). In other embodiments, the transceivers 3808, 3810 are replacedby receivers and transmitters, wherein the receivers and/or transmittersare implemented using UFT modules for performing frequency translationoperations (see, for example, FIGS. 7 and 8).

The invention can also be used to transmit signals from one home deviceto another home device. For example, the invention is applicable forpropagating video and/or audio signals throughout a home. This is shown,for example, in FIG. 38, where TVs 3812, 3814 include transceivers 3816,3818 for communicating with one another. The transceivers 3816, 3818enabled video signals to be sent from one of the TVs to another. Inembodiments of the invention, the transceivers 3816, 3818 areimplemented using UFT modules for performing frequency translationoperations (see, for example, FIGS. 10 and 11). In other embodiments,the transceivers 3816, 3818 are replaced by receivers and transmitters,wherein the receivers and/or transmitters are implemented using UFTmodules for performing frequency translation operations (see, forexample, FIGS. 7 and 8).

FIG. 38 also illustrates an embodiment where transceivers 3824, 3826 areused to communicate audio signals between a CD player 3820 and amulti-media receiver 3822. In embodiments, the transceivers 3824, 3826are implemented using UFT modules for performing frequency translationoperations (see, for example, FIGS. 10 and 11). In other embodiments,the transceivers 3824, 3826 are replaced by receivers and transmitters,wherein the receivers and/or transmitters are implemented using UFTmodules for performing frequency translation operations (see, forexample, FIGS. 7 and 8).

In the figures described above, many of the components are shown asincluding transceivers. In practice, however, some components arereceive only or transmit only. This is true for some of the devicesdiscussed throughout this application, as will be apparent to personsskilled in the relevant art(s). In such cases, the transceivers can bereplaced by receivers or transmitters, which are preferably implementedusing UFT modules for performing frequency translation operations (see,for example, FIGS. 7 and 8).

Automotive Controls

The invention is directed to automotive controls, and other devicesoften used in or with automobiles.

FIG. 39 illustrates an example car 3902 according to an embodiment ofthe invention. The car 3902 includes a number of devices thatcommunicate with objects.

For example, the car 3902 includes an interface 3904 (or multipleinterfaces) for communicating with external devices, such as but notlimited to gasoline pumps 3912 and toll booths 3916. In operation, forexample, when the car 3902 approaches the toll booth 3916, the interface3904 communicates with the toll booth 3916 in an appropriate and wellknown manner to enable the car 3902 to pass through the toll booth 3916.Also, when the car 3902 is proximate to the gasoline pump 3912, theinterface 3904 interacts with the gas pump in an appropriate and wellknown manner to enable the driver of the car 3902 to utilize the gaspump 3912 to fill the car 3902 with gas.

The car also includes a controllable door lock 3908. Upon receipt of anappropriate signal from a keyless entry device 3914, the controllabledoor lock 3908 locks or unlocks (based on the signal received).

The car further includes a controller 3910, which controls and interactswith the systems, instrumentation, and other devices of the car 3902.The controller 3910 communicates with a control unit 3918. It ispossible to control the car 3902 via use of the control unit 3918. Thecontrol unit 3918 sends commands to the controller 3910. The controller3910 performs the functions specified in the commands from the controlunit 3918. Also, the control unit 3918 sends queries to the controller3910. The controller 3910 transmits to the control unit 3918 thecar-related information specified in the queries. Thus, any carfunctions under the control of the controller 3910 can be controlled viathe control unit 3918.

It is noted that the features and functions described above and shown inFIG. 39 are provided for illustrative purposes only, and are notlimiting. The invention is applicable to other car related devices, suchas but not limited to security systems, GPS systems, telephones, etc.

The interface 3904, the door lock 3908, the controller 3910, and anyother car devices of interest include one or more transceivers 3906A,3906B, 3906C for communicating with external devices. Also, the gasolinepump 3912, keyless entry device 3914, toll booth 3916, control unit3918, and any other appropriate devices include transceivers 3906D,3906E, 3906F, 3906G for communicating with the car 3902.

Preferably, the transceivers 3906 are implemented using UFT modules forperforming frequency translation operations (see FIGS. 10 and 11).Alternatively, one or more of the transceivers 3906 can be replaced byreceiver(s) and/or transmitter(s), wherein the receiver(s) and/ortransmitter(s) are implemented using UFT modules for performingfrequency translation operations (see, for example, FIGS. 7 and 8).

Aircraft Controls

The invention is directed to aircraft controls, and other devices oftenused in or with aircrafts.

FIG. 40A illustrates an example aircraft 4002 according to an embodimentof the invention. The aircraft 4002 includes, for example, a GPS unit4012 for receipt of positioning information. The GPS unit 4012 iscoupled to a transceiver 4004D for receiving positioning information.

The aircraft 4002 also includes one or more radio(s) 4010 forcommunication with external entities. The radio(s) 4010 include one ormore transceivers 4004C for enabling such communication.

The aircraft 4002 also includes monitors 4008 for displaying, forexample, video programming, and computers 4009 that transmit and receiveinformation over a communication network. The monitors 4008 andcomputers 4009 include one or more transceiver(s) 4004B forcommunicating with external devices, such as video programming sourcesand/or data communication networks.

The aircraft 4002 includes a controller 4006 for controlling thesystems, instrumentation, and other devices of the aircraft 4002. Thecontroller 4006 can communicate with external devices via a transceiver4004A. External devices may control the aircraft 4002 by sendingappropriate commands, queries, and other messages to the controller4006.

It is noted that the features and functions described above and shown inFIG. 40A are provided for illustrative purposes only, and are notlimiting. The invention is applicable to other aircraft related devices,such as but not limited to security systems, telephones, etc. . . .

Preferably, the transceivers 4004 are implemented using UFT modules forperforming frequency translation operations (see FIGS. 10 and 11).Alternatively, one or more of the transceivers 4004 can be replaced byreceiver(s) and/or transmitter(s), wherein the receiver(s) and/ortransmitter(s) are implemented using UFT modules for performingfrequency translation operations (see, for example, FIGS. 7 and 8).

Maritime Controls

The invention is directed to maritime controls, and othermaritime-related devices.

FIG. 40B illustrates an example boat 4050 according to an embodiment ofthe invention. The devices in the example boat 4050 of FIG. 40B aresimilar to the devices in the example aircraft 4002 of FIG. 40A.Accordingly, the description above relating to FIG. 40A applies to FIG.40B.

Radio Control

The invention is directed to radio controlled devices, such as but notlimited to radio controlled cars, planes and boats.

FIG. 41 illustrates radio controlled devices according to embodiments ofthe invention. A controller 4104 includes control logic 4106 forgenerating commands to control various devices, such as a plane 4110, acar 4116, and a boat 4122. The controller 4104 includes a transceiver4108 for communication with the plane 4110, car 4146, and boat 4122.

The plane 4110, the car 4116, and the boat 4122 includes control modules4112, 4118 and 4124 for processing commands received from the controller4104. Also, control modules 4112, 4118, and 4124 maintain statusinformation that can be communicated back to the control 4104. The plane4110, the car 4116 and boat 4122 include transceivers 4114, 4120, and4126, respectively, for communicating with the controller 4104.

Preferably, the transceivers 4108, 4114, 4120, and 4126 are implementedusing UFT modules for performing frequency translation operations (seeFIGS. 10 and 11). Alternatively, the transceivers 4108, 4114, 4120, and4126 can be replaced by receivers and transmitters, wherein thereceivers and/or transmitters are implemented using UFT modules forperforming frequency translation operations (see, for example, FIGS. 7and 8).

Radio Synchronous Watch

The invention is directed to radio synchronous time devices. Radiosynchronous time devices are time pieces that receive signalsrepresentative of the current time. An example source of such timesignals is radio station WWV in Boulder, Colo. Radio synchronous timedevices update their internal clocks with the current time informationcontained in the signals.

The invention is directed to all types of radio synchronous timedevices, such as alarm clocks, clocks in appliances and electronicequipment such as clocks in computers, clocks in televisions, clocks inVCRs, wrist watches, home and office clocks, clocks in ovens and otherappliances, etc.

FIG. 43 illustrates an example radio synchronous time piece 4302, anexample of which is shown in FIG. 43. The radio synchronous time piece4302 includes a display 4304 to display the current time and time zone(and perhaps the position of the time piece 4302), receiver(s) 4306, atime module 4310, a GPS module 4308, and a battery 4312.

The receiver 4306 receives time signals from a time information source4314. Based on the time signals, the time module 4310 determines thecurrent time in a well known manner. Depending on the nature of thereceived time signals, the current time may be GMT. The current time isdisplayed in display 4304.

The receiver 4306 may receive the time signals continuously,periodically, upon user command, or sporadically (depending on thesignal strength of the time information source 4314, for example). Attimes when the receiver 4306 is not receiving time signals, the timemodule 4310 determines the current time in a well known manner (i.e.,the time module 4310 operates as a clock), using the indication of timein the last received time signal. In some embodiments, the time piece4302 may provide some indication when it is receiving time signals fromthe time information source 4314. For example, the time piece 4302 mayprovide a visual or audible indication (such as lighting an LED orbeeping when time signals are being received). The user can elect todisable this feature.

The receiver 4306 may also receive positioning information from globalpositioning satellites 4316. The GPS module 4308 uses the receivedpositioning information to determine the location of the time piece4302. The time module 4310 uses the location information to determinethe time zone and/or the local time. The time zone, the local time,and/or the location of the time piece 4302 may be displayed in thedisplay 4304.

Preferably, the receiver(s) 4306 are implemented using UFT modules forperforming frequency translation operations (see, for example, FIG. 7).

The invention is particularly well suited for implementation as a timepiece given the low power requirements of UFT modules. Time piecesimplemented using UFT modules increase the effective life of the battery4312.

Other Example Applications

The application embodiments described above are provided for purposes ofillustration. These applications and embodiments are not intended tolimit the invention. Alternate and additional applications andembodiments, differing slightly or substantially from those describedherein, will be apparent to persons skilled in the relevant art(s) basedon the teachings contained herein. For example, such alternate andadditional applications and embodiments include combinations of thosedescribed above. Such combinations will be apparent to persons skilledin the relevant art(s) based on the herein teachings.

Additional applications and embodiments are described below.

Applications Involving Enhanced Signal Reception

As discussed above, the invention is directed to methods and systems forenhanced signal reception (ESR). Any of the example applicationsdiscussed above can be modified by incorporating ESR therein to enhancecommunication between transmitters and receivers. Accordingly, theinvention is also directed to any of the applications described above,in combination with any of the ESR embodiments described above.

Applications Involving Unified Down-Conversion and Filtering

As described above, the invention is directed to unified down-conversionand filtering (UDF). UDF according to the invention can be used toperformed filtering and/or down-conversion operations.

Many if not all of the applications described herein involve frequencytranslation operations. Accordingly, the applications described abovecan be enhanced by using any of the UDF embodiments described herein.

Many if not all of the applications described above involve filteringoperations. Accordingly, any of the applications described above can beenhanced by using any of the UDF embodiments described herein.

Accordingly, the invention is directed to any of the applicationsdescribed herein in combination with any of the UDF embodimentsdescribed herein.

CONCLUSION

Example implementations of the systems and components of the inventionhave been described herein. As noted elsewhere, these exampleimplementations have been described for illustrative purposes only, andare not limiting. Other implementation embodiments are possible andcovered by the invention, such as but not limited to software andsoftware/hardware implementations of the systems and components of theinvention. Such implementation embodiments will be apparent to personsskilled in the relevant art(s) based on the teachings contained herein.

While various application embodiments of the present invention have beendescribed above, it should be understood that they have been presentedby way of example only, and not limitation. Thus, the breadth and scopeof the present invention should not be limited by any of theabove-described exemplary embodiments, but should be defined only inaccordance with the following claims and their equivalents.

What is claimed is:
 1. An apparatus for unified down-conversion andfiltering, comprising: a down conversion module comprising first andsecond sampling circuits, each circuit comprised of a switching deviceand a storage module; the first sampling circuit receiving as an inputan RF information signal, and providing as an output a firstdown-converted signal; the second sampling circuit receiving as an inputthe output down-converted signal from the first sampling circuit andproviding as an output a second down-converted signal that is phaseshifted relative to the first down-converted signal; the switchingdevice of the first sampling circuit receiving as an input a firstcontrol signal and the switching device of the second sampling circuitreceiving as in input a second control signal that differs in phase fromthe first control signal; and the first control signal controlling acharging and discharging cycle of the storage module of the firstsampling circuit by controlling the switching device of the firstsampling circuit so that a portion of energy is transferred from the RFinformation signal to the storage module of the first sampling circuitduring a charging part of the cycle and a portion of the transferredenergy is discharged during a discharging part of the cycle, and thefirst control signal operating at an aliasing rate selected so thatenergy of the RF information signal is sampled and applied to thestorage module of the first sampling circuit at a frequency that isequal to or less than twice the frequency of the RF information signal,and wherein the storage module of the first sampling circuit generatessaid down-converted signal from the alternate charging and dischargingapplied to the storage module of the first sampling circuit using saidfirst control signal; a delay module comprising first and second delaycircuits; the first delay circuit receiving at its input (i) the seconddown-converted signal that is phase shifted, and (ii) the first controlsignal, and outputting a delayed version of the second down-convertedsignal; and the second delay circuit receiving at its input (i) thedelayed version of the second down-converted signal, and (ii) the secondcontrol signal, and outputting a version of the second down-convertedsignal that is further delayed relative to the output of the first delaycircuit; and a summing module that forms a final down-converted,filtered output signal by combining the second down-converted, phaseshifted signal output from the second sampling circuit and the furtherdelayed version of the second down-converted signal output by the seconddelay circuit.
 2. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a scalingmodule that multiplies the further delayed version of the seconddown-converted signal by a specified value.
 3. The apparatus of claim 2,wherein the scaling module comprises a scaling circuit that includes oneor more components configured to perform signal scaling on the furtherdelayed version of the second down-converted signal.
 4. The apparatus ofclaim 3, wherein the scaling circuit used to scale the further delayedversion of the second down-converted signal comprises an amplifiercircuit.
 5. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the apparatus for unifieddown-conversion and filtering is implemented in a receiver.
 6. Theapparatus of claim 1, wherein the apparatus for unified down-conversionand filtering is implemented in a transceiver.
 7. The apparatus of claim1, wherein the apparatus for unified down-conversion and filtering isimplemented in a cellular phone.
 8. The apparatus of claim 1, whereinthe apparatus for unified down-conversion and filtering is implementedto process a data communication.
 9. The apparatus of claim 1, whereinthe apparatus for unified down-conversion and filtering is implementedin a wireless network.
 10. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein thewireless network comprises a wide area network (WAN).
 11. The apparatusof claim 9, wherein the wireless network comprises a local area network(LAN).
 12. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein the wireless networkcomprises communication from a first peripheral device to a secondperipheral device.
 13. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the apparatusfor unified down-conversion and filtering is implemented in positioningand location circuitry.
 14. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein theapparatus for unified down-conversion and filtering is implemented inGlobal Positioning System (GPS) circuitry.
 15. The apparatus of claim 1,further comprising an output sample and hold module including a thirdswitching device and a third storage device, the output sample and holdmodule storing a portion of the further delayed version of the seconddown-converted signal in the third storage module at each clock cycle ofthe first control signal, the stored portions of the further delayedversion of the second down-converted signal forming a sampled,down-converted, filtered output signal.
 16. An apparatus for unifieddown-conversion and filtering, comprising: a down conversion modulecomprising first and second sampling circuits, each circuit comprised ofa switching device and a storage module; the first sampling circuitreceiving as an input an RF information signal, and providing as anoutput a first down-converted signal; the second sampling circuitreceiving as an input the output down-converted signal from the firstsampling circuit and providing as an output a second down-convertedsignal that is phase shifted relative to the first down-convertedsignal; the switching device of the first sampling circuit receiving asan input a first control signal and the switching device of the secondsampling circuit receiving as in input a second control signal thatdiffers in phase from the first control signal; and the first controlsignal controlling a charging and discharging cycle of the storagemodule of the first sampling circuit by controlling the switching deviceof the first sampling circuit so that a portion of energy is transferredfrom the RF information signal to the storage module of the firstsampling circuit during a charging part of the cycle and a portion ofthe transferred energy is discharged during a discharging part of thecycle, and the first control signal operating at an aliasing rateselected so that energy of the RF information signal is sampled andapplied to the storage module of the first sampling circuit at afrequency that is equal to or less than twice the frequency of the RFinformation signal, and wherein the storage module of the first samplingcircuit generates said down-converted signal from the alternate chargingand discharging applied to the storage module of the first samplingcircuit using said first control signal; a first delay module comprisingfirst and second delay circuits; a first delay circuit receiving at itsinput (i) the second down-converted signal that is phase shifted, and(ii) the first control signal, and outputting a delayed version of thesecond down-converted signal; and the second delay circuit receiving atits input (i) the delayed version of the second down-converted signal,and (ii) the second control signal, and outputting a version of thesecond down-converted signal that is further delayed relative to theoutput of the first delay circuit; a second delay module comprisingthird and fourth delay circuits; the third delay circuit receiving atits input (i) the further delayed version of the second down-convertedsignal, and (ii) the first control signal, and outputting a subsequentlydelayed version of the further delayed version second down-convertedsignal; and the fourth delay circuit receiving at its input (i) thesubsequently delayed version of the further delayed version seconddown-converted signal, and (ii) the second control signal, andoutputting a version of the second down-converted signal that is furtherdelayed relative to the output of the third delay circuit; a firstscaling module that multiplies the further delayed version of the seconddown-converted signal that was output by the second delay circuit by afirst specified value; a second scaling module that multiplies thesubsequently delayed version of the second down-converted signal thatwas output by the fourth delay circuit by a second specified value; afirst summing module that combines the further delayed, scaled versionof the second down-converted signal output by the second delay circuitand the subsequently delayed, scaled version of the seconddown-converted signal output by the fourth delay circuit to create acombined delayed output signal; and a second summing module that forms afinal down-converted, filtered output signal by combining the seconddown-converted, phase shifted signal output from the second samplingcircuit and the combined delayed output signal that was output by thefirst summing module.
 17. The apparatus of claim 16, wherein the firstand second scaling modules comprise scaling circuits that each includeone or more components configured to perform signal scaling on thefurther delayed version of the second down-converted signal that wasoutput by the second delay circuit and the subsequently delayed versionof the second down-converted signal that was output by the fourth delaycircuit.
 18. The apparatus of claim 17, wherein the scaling circuitscomprise amplifier circuits.
 19. The apparatus of claim 16, wherein theapparatus for unified down-conversion and filtering is implemented in areceiver.
 20. The apparatus of claim 16, wherein the apparatus forunified down-conversion and filtering is implemented in a transceiver.21. The apparatus of claim 16, wherein the apparatus for unifieddown-conversion and filtering is implemented in a cellular phone. 22.The apparatus of claim 16, wherein the apparatus for unifieddown-conversion and filtering is implemented to process a datacommunication.
 23. The apparatus of claim 16, wherein the apparatus forunified down-conversion and filtering is implemented in a wirelessnetwork.
 24. The apparatus of claim 23, wherein the wireless networkcomprises a wide area network (WAN).
 25. The apparatus of claim 23,wherein the wireless network comprises a local area network (LAN). 26.The apparatus of claim 23, wherein the wireless network comprisescommunication from a first peripheral device to a second peripheraldevice.
 27. The apparatus of claim 16, wherein the apparatus for unifieddown-conversion and filtering is implemented in positioning and locationcircuitry.
 28. The apparatus of claim 16, wherein the apparatus forunified down-conversion and filtering is implemented in GlobalPositioning System (GPS) circuitry.
 29. The apparatus of claim 16,further comprising an output sample and hold module including a thirdswitching device and a third storage device, the output sample and holdmodule storing a portion of the final down-converted, filtered outputsignal in the third storage module at each clock cycle of the firstcontrol signal, the stored portions of the final down-converted,filtered output signal forming a sampled, down-converted, filteredoutput signal.
 30. An apparatus for unified down-conversion andfiltering, comprising: a down conversion module comprising first andsecond sampling circuits, each circuit comprised of a switching deviceand a storage module; the first sampling circuit receiving as an inputan RF information signal, and providing as an output a firstdown-converted signal; the second sampling circuit receiving as an inputthe output down-converted signal from the first sampling circuit andproviding as an output a second down-converted signal that is phaseshifted relative to the first down-converted signal; the switchingdevice of the first sampling circuit receiving as an input a firstcontrol signal and the switching device of the second sampling circuitreceiving as in input a second control signal that differs in phase fromthe first control signal; and the first control signal controlling acharging and discharging cycle of the storage module of the firstsampling circuit by controlling the switching device of the firstsampling circuit so that a portion of energy is transferred from the RFinformation signal to the storage module of the first sampling circuitduring a charging part of the cycle and a portion of the transferredenergy is discharged during a discharging part of the cycle, and thefirst control signal operating at an aliasing rate selected so thatenergy of the RF information signal is sampled and applied to thestorage module of the first sampling circuit at a frequency that isequal to or less than twice the frequency of the RF information signal,and wherein the storage module of the first sampling circuit generatessaid down-converted signal from the alternate charging and dischargingapplied to the storage module of the first sampling circuit using saidfirst control signal; a first delay module comprising first and seconddelay circuits; a first delay circuit receiving at its input (i) thesecond down-converted signal that is phase shifted, and (ii) the firstcontrol signal, and outputting a delayed version of the seconddown-converted signal; and the second delay circuit receiving at itsinput (i) the delayed version of the second down-converted signal, and(ii) the second control signal, and outputting a version of the seconddown-converted signal that is further delayed relative to the output ofthe first delay circuit; a second delay module comprising third andfourth delay circuits; the third delay circuit receiving at its input(i) the further delayed version of the second down-converted signal, and(ii) the first control signal, and outputting a subsequently delayedversion of the further delayed version second down-converted signal; andthe fourth delay circuit receiving at its input (i) the subsequentlydelayed version of the further delayed version second down-convertedsignal, and (ii) the second control signal, and outputting a version ofthe second down-converted signal that is further delayed relative to theoutput of the third delay circuit; a first scaling module thatmultiplies the further delayed version of the second down-convertedsignal that was output by the second delay circuit by a first specifiedvalue; a second scaling module that multiplies the subsequently delayedversion of the second down-converted signal that was output by thefourth delay circuit by a second specified value; a first summing modulethat combines the further delayed, scaled version of the seconddown-converted signal output by the second delay circuit and thesubsequently delayed, scaled version of the second down-converted signaloutput by the fourth delay circuit to create a combined delayed outputsignal; a second summing module that forms a final down-converted,filtered output signal by combining the second down-converted, phaseshifted signal output from the second sampling circuit and the combineddelayed output signal that was output by the first summing module; andan output sample and hold module including a third switching device anda third storage device, the output sample and hold module storing aportion of the final down-converted, filtered output signal in the thirdstorage module at each clock cycle of the first control signal, thestored portions of the final down-converted, filtered output signalforming a sampled, down-converted, filtered output signal.
 31. Theapparatus of claim 30, wherein the first and second scaling modulescomprise scaling circuits that each include one or more componentsconfigured to perform signal scaling on the further delayed version ofthe second down-converted signal that was output by the second delaycircuit and the subsequently delayed version of the seconddown-converted signal that was output by the fourth delay circuit. 32.The apparatus of claim 31, wherein the scaling circuits compriseamplifier circuits.
 33. The apparatus of claim 30, wherein the apparatusfor unified down-conversion and filtering is implemented in a receiver.34. The apparatus of claim 30, wherein the apparatus for unifieddown-conversion and filtering is implemented in a transceiver.
 35. Theapparatus of claim 30, wherein the apparatus for unified down-conversionand filtering is implemented in a cellular phone.
 36. The apparatus ofclaim 30, wherein the apparatus for unified down-conversion andfiltering is implemented to process a data communication.
 37. Theapparatus of claim 30, wherein the apparatus for unified down-conversionand filtering is implemented in a wireless network.
 38. The apparatus ofclaim 37, wherein the wireless network comprises a wide area network(WAN).
 39. The apparatus of claim 37, wherein the wireless networkcomprises a local area network (LAN).
 40. The apparatus of claim 37,wherein the wireless network comprises communication from a firstperipheral device to a second peripheral device.
 41. The apparatus ofclaim 30, wherein the apparatus for unified down-conversion andfiltering is implemented in positioning and location circuitry.
 42. Theapparatus of claim 30, wherein the apparatus for unified down-conversionand filtering is implemented in Global Positioning System (GPS)circuitry.